One of the reasons why periodontal disease is such a threat to your smile is because it’s progressive. Once it develops, it continues to grow worse the longer it’s left untreated, and many patients in Encinitas/San Diego don’t realize they have it until it becomes severe. Fortunately, your periodontal expert can help you address periodontal disease and restore your healthy smile no matter what stage it’s in. However, for the sake of your long-term oral and periodontal health, addressing it as soon as possible is always the best choice.  

Gingivitis (Gum Infection)

Periodontal disease starts as a seemingly minor infection in your gums. It forms when harmful oral bacteria accumulate along your gum line and work their way underneath your gums, irritating and infecting them. This infection is known as gingivitis and is marked by red, often-inflamed gum tissues. You can also notice bleeding when you brush and floss your teeth as your gums become more infected and separate from your teeth. If detected early, gingivitis can sometimes be reversed with deep periodontal cleaning (scaling and root planing). If it has progressed too far to be reversed, then scaling and root planing can help stop it from growing worse.

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)

Periodontitis describes a more severe stage of gum disease in which the disease erodes your gums, periodontal ligaments, and jawbone structure. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is not reversible, and if it becomes that severe, then you may spend the rest of your life needing periodontal maintenance to keep it under control. Otherwise, it may erode enough of your gums and jawbone structure that you inevitably lose one or more teeth to the disease.

Stop Periodontal Disease from Progressing

Once it develops, periodontal disease can progress quickly. The best way to stop it is by seeking expert periodontal treatment as soon as possible. For more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.