Three Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease may progress painlessly, producing a few obvious signs, but the primary symptom is spotting blood in the sink after you brush or floss. There are three stages of gum disease that you need to be aware of: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. It is important to practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis to avoid the condition altogether and you should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with our doctors at Flossophy Dental twice a year to keep your gums healthy.

The three stages of gum disease are: 

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth is officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

To learn more about the services provided here at the office, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.

Protect Yourself from Periodontal Disease

Many people think its normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss, when in fact; it’s one of the earliest signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Swollen and bleeding gums are early signs that your gums are infected with bacteria. If nothing is done, the infection can spread. It can destroy the structures that support your teeth in your jawbone. Eventually, your teeth can become so loose that they have to be extracted. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable, and reversible, and here at Flossophy Dental we can give your gums the treatment they deserve.

The three stages of gum disease – from least to most severe – are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. Gum disease can be painless, so it is important to be aware of any of the following symptoms: swollen, red, tender or bleeding gums, gums that recede or move away from the tooth, persistent bad breath or bad taste in mouth, loose teeth and visible pus surrounding the teeth and gums.

If your gums bleed when your brush/floss or you experience mouth pain on a daily basis, give us a call to discuss your options. To learn more about periodontal disease and other services offered here at Flossophy Dental, visit www.flossophydental.ca for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Flossophy Dental in Edmonton, AB, call 780-306-9333.