There are several stages of gum disease, which include gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. The initial stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, typically shows signs through redness and inflammation of the gums. An individual with gingivitis may also notice bleeding and possibly sensitivity when brushing their teeth.
The second stage of gum disease, called periodontitis, is when the gum disease advances to the point where the gums begin to recede away from the teeth and form "pockets" where food and bacteria can get trapped and continue to cause further infection and inflammation.
Advanced periodontitis, the most severe stage of gum disease, is when teeth may shift, loosen, or fall out of a patient's mouth. At this point, the gum disease causes irreversible damage to your smile.
Common signs of gum disease include:
- bleeding of the gums while brushing or flossing
- inflamed and/or red swollen gums
- recession of gums from the teeth
- pus from the gum line
- stubborn bad breath
- shifting teeth
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