When left untreated, the inflammation will cause bone and gum loss and the disease will progress to the next stage “periodontitis”.
Periodontitis is classified as Mild, Moderate or Severe, depending upon the extent of gum and bone destruction. At this stage pockets get deeper and the rate of destruction increases. At this stage gum bleeding increases and patient could see their teeth are becoming longer as bone and gum tissue are lost. Patient can smell a foul odor periodically. This stage may or may not involve any pain. At the final stages of periodontal disease, teeth and gums become more painful and teeth become mobile as they have lost their supporting structure.
Warning signs of periodontal disease:
- red, swollen, or tender gums
- bleeding gums while brushing and flossing
- bad breath or bad taste
- receding gums
- spaces forming between teeth
- difficult or painful chewing, tooth sensitivity, mouth sores
- pus between teeth and gums
- loose or mobile teeth or teeth that have fallen out
Even though the primary cause of periodontal disease is bacteria there are many risk factors that increase the chances and the severity of periodontal disease.
- Diabetes and Smoking is the number one risk factor
- Poorly made restorations like filling, crowns, bridges, or loose dentures
- Genetics and history of early tooth loss in the family
- Mal-aligned teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Hormonal changes such as in pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and use of oral contraceptives
- Medications, such as certain blood pressure, anti-seizure, anti-depressants medication
- Decrease salivary flow due to radiation therapy in cancer patient
