What Are Human Periodontal Disease Stages? – A Closer Look
Periodontal disease is a chronic, painful condition affecting gums and teeth. The symptoms of periodontal disease vary depending on the stage. If the disease is not treated fast, the condition can progress and lead to serious health problems.
Human periodontal disease stages
Periodontal disease stages are categorized according to the depth of disease and severity. Advanced stages are more serious and require advanced treatment methods to control the disease. People with advanced stages will have deep pockets and red, swollen gums, and their teeth will be looser and more painful.
Eventually, they may need to undergo periodontal surgery. Advanced periodontal disease may also lead to other health problems, including heart disease and diabetes.
Periodontitis is a typical oral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. About 10% of the adult population is susceptible to the severe stages of periodontal disease. The remainder of the population varies between the two extremes. This disease is a significant public health problem because it causes tooth loss, reduces chewing function, and impairs quality of life.
So, to assist you in recognizing gum disease before it worsens, below is a comprehensive explanation of its 4 stages:
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the 1st stage of periodontal disease that can cause tooth loss if left untreated. The earlier stages of the disease are marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. In more advanced matters, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria can grow and cause further damage. If gingivitis is not treated, it can lead to Periodontitis, an even more serious form of gum disease.
Stage 2: Initial Periodontitis
The deeper periodontal structures, or the tissues that connect the teeth to the bone, are affected by gingivitis at this stage, which causes early or beginning bone loss. One in ten people develops full-blown Periodontitis, which causes severe bone loss.
Stage 3: Mild Periodontitis
Due to ongoing bone and tissue degeneration, the third stage of gum disease causes considerable bone loss (20 to 50%) on the teeth’ roots’ surfaces. Periodontal disease is “cyclical” in that it passes through phases with peaks in activity and troughs in which the body is trying to heal itself. It is referred to as persistent inflammation or frustrated healing.
Stage 4: Progressive Periodontitis
In stage 4 of periodontal disease, the gums have receded significantly and may even expose the tooth’s root. Bone loss is extensive, and there is significant tooth mobility. Teeth may loosen and eventually fall out.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the signs and symptoms associated with gingivitis?
Swelling, redness, and bleeding during brushing or flossing are common signs and symptoms of gingivitis.
- What is the difference between gum recession and periodontal disease?
Gum recession is when the gum line pulls away from the tooth surface, exposing more of the tooth’s root, while periodontal disease is an infection that affects tissues supporting the teeth.
- What are some risk factors for developing human periodontal disease?
Some risk factors for developing human periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes mellitus, poor oral hygiene habits, faulty restorations (fillings), age, genetics etc
The bottom line
If you’ve been wondering what human periodontal disease is, how it progresses, and the stages of severity, you’re in luck. This article has outlined everything you need to know about the four stages of gum disease. Early diagnosis is key to controlling more serious problems down the road. If you think you may be experiencing early signs or symptoms of gingivitis, please get in touch with your dentist for a consultation as soon as possible.
