{"id":181,"date":"2018-12-03T19:51:39","date_gmt":"2018-12-03T19:51:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.richardfossumdds.com\/blog\/?p=181"},"modified":"2019-01-03T19:52:13","modified_gmt":"2019-01-03T19:52:13","slug":"dentist-in-temple-3","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.richardfossumdds.com\/blog\/dentist-in-temple-3\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Dentist in Temple Explains the Stages of Gum Disease"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"manOne of the most prevalent dental health issues facing Americans is gum (periodontal) disease, a condition that 85% of US adults suffer from. The first step to reversing this disturbing trend is for the populace to become better educated about the causes and stages of the condition. As you read on, your dentist in Temple provides insight into gum disease<\/a> and what can be done to restore your health.<\/p>\n

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What is Periodontal Disease?<\/h2>\n

The main cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of bacteria. Over time, if not addressed, hundreds of different types of bacteria form a super-structure called plaque, which is a clear, sticky substance that clings to the teeth and eventually works its way beneath the gumline.<\/p>\n

If not treated, it causes inflammation of the gums and a cascade of other negative effects.<\/p>\n

Stage #1 \u2013 Gingivitis<\/h2>\n

The first stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, is important to identify and treat. That\u2019s because at this point, any damage incurred can still be reversed through proper treatment and habit changes.<\/p>\n

The symptoms to be on the lookout for are inflamed, bleeding, red, puffy or sensitive gums. If any of these traits are noticed, you should immediately reach out to your dentist to be examined.<\/p>\n

Stage #2 \u2013 Periodontitis<\/h2>\n

If the initial stages of gum disease aren\u2019t treated, then the condition can eventually progress to periodontitis. At this point, there may be damage to the ligaments, bone and other tissue that hold your teeth in place.<\/p>\n

Along with advising you of habit changes to make and ways to improve your oral hygiene practices, your periodontist may recommend one or both of the following forms of treatment:<\/p>\n