The earliest stage of periodontitis, gingivitis, develops due to bacterial plaque that accumulates on your teeth and comes into contact with your gums. The signs usually include gums that are sensitive, red, and puffy, and bleed easily. Gingivitis can be reversed with a proper cleaning by Traynor Periodontics & Implants and improved oral health care at home. If not addressed, it will escalate quickly.

This stage is caused by the continued build-up of harmful bacterial plaque when gingivitis is left untreated. Early periodontitis is indicated by symptoms that are like gingivitis, just more severe. Your gums feel painful and are more sensitive, and the brushing and flossing of your teeth results in bleeding. Unlike gingivitis, which can be addressed with a cleaning and improved self-care, early periodontitis will require more intensive interventions, like scaling, root planing, and even laser gum treatment.

When bacteria and plaque have developed such that gum tissue is being destroyed, you have now reached advanced periodontitis. If you have reached this point, you now have small pockets between your teeth and gums, which provide a convenient breeding ground for additional bacteria. With additional bacteria, these pockets expand causing the gums to recede. If left untreated, this recession will result in bone loss.