The Many Stages of Periodontal Disease

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Periodontal disease doesn’t happen overnight. It develops in stages, often progressing silently until more serious symptoms appear. Understanding these stages can help patients recognize the warning signs early—and take action before lasting damage sets in.

Stage One: Gingivitis

This is the earliest and most common stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Symptoms may include mild redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is still reversible with proper hygiene and professional care.

Stage Two: Early Periodontitis

If gingivitis in Boise, ID goes untreated, it can progress into early periodontitis. The inflammation begins to affect the supporting bone structure beneath the gums. Patients may notice gum recession or increased sensitivity. Professional treatment becomes more important here, as bone loss can start to occur.

Stage Three: Moderate Periodontitis

By this stage, infection has reached deeper into the supporting tissues. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, trapping bacteria and making cleaning more difficult. You may notice loose teeth, persistent bad breath, or discomfort when chewing. At this point, damage is no longer reversible, but further progression can still be managed.

Stage Four: Advanced Periodontitis

This is the most serious stage. The infection causes significant bone loss and gum recession, often resulting in tooth mobility or loss. Chewing becomes difficult, and some patients experience visible changes in their bite. Surgical treatment may be necessary to manage the damage and prevent tooth loss.

Recognizing these stages is key to preserving your oral health. If you’re noticing changes in your gums, don’t wait—early evaluation by a periodontist in Boise, ID can prevent problems from getting worse. At Idaho Perio Center for Dental Implants and Laser Periodontal Therapy , we offer a range of treatments designed to treat periodontitis at any stage. Contact us to learn more.

Is There Hope For Severe Periodontal Disease?

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In severe periodontal disease, there’s significant risk of permanent tooth loss. If you currently have advanced periodontitis, chance are that you already have one or more loose teeth, or have lost a permanent tooth. The sooner you get help, the better. Don’t lose hope, because there is hope for severeperiodontal disease in Boise, ID.

Scaling and Root Planing

One of the main treatments available for severe periodontal disease is scaling and root planing. This is where the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. In the process, the roots of the teeth are smoothed so that bacteria cannot reattach itself. This is the first step of many to reduce inflammation from advanced gum disease.

Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure

A technologically advanced treatment known as Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) is also available at Idaho Perio Center for Dental Implants and Laser Periodontal Therapy. With this treatment, your periodontist uses a laser to target bacteria and essentially vaporize it. This procedure also works to regenerate bone, which is crucial, since patients with periodontal disease have significant bone loss.

Flap Surgery

When surgical intervention becomes necessary, flap surgery is available. Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to remove tartar deposits in deep pockets and then suturing the gums back in place to reduce pocket depth, making it easier to clean and maintain the area. This may be done in tandem with bone grafting, which helps regenerate lost bone tissue by using bone graft materials, stimulating the body’s natural bone regeneration process. This is particularly important for stabilizing teeth and preventing further tooth loss.

Don’t lose another minute wondering if help is available for your severe periodontal disease. Contact yourperiodontist in Boise, ID today to book an appointment.