If you know anything about oral health, you know that gum disease is a serious problem. That’s why it’s important to visit your periodontist in Newton regularly for oral examinations and teeth cleaning. Otherwise, you could end up losing your teeth and needing dental implants. In addition to maintaining a healthy dental care routine, it’s important to be as informed as possible about the potential dangers of gum disease. Keep reading to learn more about the stages of gum disease, also known as periodontitis. 
Early Stage: Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early form of gum disease and results in the inflammation of the gums. During this early stage of gum disease, bacteria in the plaque around your teeth start to build up. This causes your gums to become inflamed and irritated, and may cause bleeding. However, there is no permanent bone or tissue damage in this early stage of periodontitis.
Advanced Stage: Periodontitis
Untreated gingivitis often advances to periodontitis. When periodontitis takes hold, the inner layer of the gum and jawbone begin to come away from the teeth. This leaves exposed pockets between the teeth and gums that can collect plaque and become infected below the gum line. The body’s immune system will try to fight this progression of bacteria. However, these infection-fighting enzymes, along with the periodontitis-causing bacteria, produce harmful toxins that can damage the jawbone and connective tissue that stabilize the teeth. Over time, the teeth will become loose and fall out.
Replacement of Tooth Loss from Periodontitis
After losing your teeth to periodontitis, you have a couple of options. One option is to wear dentures, which can easily be taken out of the mouth. Another option is a dental bridge, which places replacement teeth on the gums with the support of the surrounding surviving teeth. Finally, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth. This is the most permanent option for tooth replacement and can prevent additional bone loss caused by periodontitis and gaps in your mouth.
