Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: three minutes.
Gum disease often starts quietly, with mild symptoms that are easy to ignore. Without treatment, it progresses in stages that can lead to permanent gum damage, bone loss, and tooth loss.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
- How to Slow or Stop Gum Disease Progression
- Periodontal Treatment in San Francisco
- FAQs
What Are the Stages of Gum Disease?
Gum disease progresses in stages, starting with mild gum inflammation and advancing to severe infection that damages bone and supporting structures.
The stages include gingivitis, early periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Each stage reflects increasing tissue damage and requires more complex treatment.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest and only reversible stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up along the gumline and triggers inflammation.
Common signs include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
At this stage, there is no bone loss. Professional dental cleanings combined with consistent brushing and flossing can fully restore gum health.
Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, bacteria spread below the gumline and begin damaging the tissue attachment around the teeth. This marks the transition to periodontitis.
Typical changes include:
- Formation of shallow gum pockets
- Early bone loss visible on dental X-rays
- Increased bleeding and tenderness
Damage at this stage is permanent, but progression can often be controlled with periodontal treatment and improved oral hygiene.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
Moderate periodontitis involves deeper infection and greater bone loss around the teeth. The gums pull away further, allowing bacteria to accumulate in deeper pockets.
Patients may notice:
- Gum recession and longer-looking teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Mild tooth mobility
Treatment usually requires scaling and root planing and may involve localized antibiotic therapy to control infection.
Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage and leads to extensive bone and tissue destruction. Teeth lose their structural support and may shift or loosen significantly.
Clinical signs include:
- Deep gum pockets with pus
- Loose or drifting teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- High risk of tooth loss
At this stage, surgical treatment is often necessary, and tooth replacement may be required if teeth cannot be saved.
How to Slow or Stop Gum Disease Progression
Early diagnosis is critical. Routine dental exams allow dentists to identify gum disease before symptoms become severe.
Key preventive steps include:
- Professional dental cleanings at recommended intervals
- Daily brushing and flossing
- Addressing medical risk factors such as smoking or diabetes
- Periodontal maintenance for patients with a history of gum disease
Periodontal Treatment in San Francisco
Gum disease does not improve on its own and typically worsens without treatment. If you notice bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, contact your dentist for evaluation and guidance.
To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, CA, call (415)-392-8611. Visit us at 490 Post Street Suite 830, San Francisco, CA.
FAQs
The stage is determined through a dental exam that measures gum pocket depth, checks for bleeding and recession, and reviews dental X-rays for bone loss. Symptoms alone are not enough to accurately stage gum disease.
Bacteria from infected gums can contribute to chronic bad breath, postnasal irritation, and throat discomfort, especially in more advanced stages.
It is never too late to treat gum disease, but advanced stages cause permanent damage. Treatment at later stages focuses on stopping progression, managing infection, and preserving remaining teeth rather than reversing damage.