Encinitas Periodontist Explores the Stages of Gum Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is complicated, and treating it can be just as much so. Depending on what stage the disease is in by the time it’s detected, treatment can range from a deep cleaning and improved dental hygiene to invasive surgery to repair damaged or missing gum tissue. As a periodontist in Encinitas, Dr. Ann Kania has extensive experience diagnosing and treating periodontal disease in all of its forms and restoring excellent periodontal health to her patients.

A Growing Problem

Many people may not consider periodontal disease a serious concern, but it affects over 80% of adults in America under the age of 60. The disease is progressive and will continue its destructive course until you take action to stop it. The two main stages of periodontal disease are:

Gingivitis

The beginning stage of periodontal disease, called gingivitis, is marked by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Typically, it starts when plaque accumulates on your gum line and the bacteria within it release toxins to irritate your gum tissue. If inflammation continues attachment loss can begin.  When the supporting tissue is lost it can cause your gums to recede from your teeth, creating pockets where germs can gather and multiply safely, exacerbating the infection and contributing to periodontal disease’s progression. Gingivitis can typically be reversed with non-invasive treatment to clear the bacteria from underneath your gum line and allow your gums to heal. If ignored, however, it can progress to periodontitis and threaten your entire oral health.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is defined by lost tissues that hold your teeth in place.  The infection erodes your gum tissue, causing it to loosen its grip on your teeth. In time, the infection can reach your jawbone and continue its destruction of your smile’s foundation. Consequently, periodontal disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss in America.

Excellent Periodontal Health in Encinitas

To treat periodontal disease, or to learn more about protecting and improving your periodontal health, contact Dr. Kania at our Encinitas periodontal care office by calling (706) 642-0711. We serve patients from Encinitas, San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, La Costa, and the neighboring communities.