Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can affect 50 percent of the adult population and, in most cases, it is a sign of a bacterial and parasitic oral infection. Below are some of the characteristics of each of the stages of gum disease.
Healthy Gums:
- The gums are pink
- The edge of the gum adheres to the teeth
- No bleeding
Gingivitis:
- The gums bleed easily
- Bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth occur
- The gums are reddish in color
Early Periodontitis:
- Gums recede
- Bleeding is more pronounced
- Radiography shows a slight bone deterioration
- A 4 mm pocket appears around the teeth
Moderate Periodontitis:
- Abscesses can develop around the teeth and gums recede
- Radiography shows angular bone deterioration
- The pockets reach 5-6 mm
Advanced Periodontitis:
- Teeth begin to loosen
- The pockets now reach 7+ mm
- The bone shows significant deterioration
Gum disease can be predictably treated with a non-invasive option that involves a laser and a microscope.
Please contact our office at 248-357-3100 to learn more about the steps that can be taken to eliminate periodontal disease.