{"id":145,"date":"2021-05-28T16:47:34","date_gmt":"2021-05-28T16:47:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smileyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/?p=145"},"modified":"2021-05-28T16:47:34","modified_gmt":"2021-05-28T16:47:34","slug":"need-know-two-stages-gum-disease-in-waverly","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smileyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/need-know-two-stages-gum-disease-in-waverly\/","title":{"rendered":"What You Need to Know About the Two Stages of Gum Disease"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"infographic<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Most of us are familiar with the sinking feeling of hearing your dentist say that you have a cavity. However, there are two other words that you never want to hear your dentist say at your checkup: \u201cgingivitis\u201d and \u201cperiodontitis.\u201d These words certainly sound scary, but what exactly do they mean? They\u2019re actually the two stages of gum disease<\/a>. Knowing the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis, and seeking treatment right away, can save your smile. Here\u2019s what you should know about gum disease in Waverly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis: A Warning of Potential Danger<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, plaque accumulates between the teeth. The gums become inflamed and may bleed easily when flossing or brushing. Fortunately, no permanent damage has occurred yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Without treatment, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis and wreaks havoc on your smile. The good news is that gingivitis can often be reversed with regular dental checkups and cleanings<\/a> as well as daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Periodontitis: Irreversible Damage to Your Smile<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When gingivitis worsens into periodontitis, the gums become so infected that the tissue begins to pull back from the teeth, creating pockets. Debris can collect in these pockets, accelerating the infection. Eventually, the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place are destroyed. Teeth can loosen and even fall out altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Tell Whether You Have Gingivitis or Periodontitis<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The symptoms of gingivitis are sometimes barely noticeable until they have advanced into periodontitis, so it\u2019s important to keep an eye out for the slightest signs of trouble. Gingivitis commonly causes the gums to become red, swollen, or tender. Bleeding when you brush or floss is another major sign of gingivitis. Contact your dentist right away if you notice any of these symptoms; they can help you reverse the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Periodontitis is much more obvious because the infection has already caused serious harm to your smile. Common signs of advanced gum disease include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n