Researchers estimate that over 50% of all adults have periodontal disease, and that percentage increases to over 70% for senior adults. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and infections that can spread to your heart and other parts of your body. If you have periodontal disease, you may need to see a periodontist. Here are some signs that can help determine when a periodontist is necessary. Stage One
Stage One of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis has several warning signs. You may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss. Also, your gums might look red, discolored, or swollen. If you have gingivitis, you and a dentist can come up with a treatment plan to cure your gum disease. Usually, proper tooth brushing and flossing, along with regular dental visits, can keep gum disease at bay. Be sure that you visit a dentist twice a year to ensure your gum disease doesn’t progress.
Stages Two and Three
Stages Two and Three of gum disease are very different from gingivitis. Dentists call these stages periodontitis. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be treated. There are lots of warning signs for Stages Two and Three of gum disease. You may notice that your breath is bad no matter how often you brush your teeth. You might also notice that you have spaces or pockets between your teeth and gums or that your teeth look longer or larger. With periodontitis, teeth can feel loose. You may also begin to lose teeth.
Periodontists
Periodontists specialize in periodontal disease. While you may not need a periodontist if you have Stage One of gum disease, talk with your dentist about whether or not you need a periodontist if you have periodontitis. That way, you’ll be able to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
