Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. If not treated, it often gets worse. Bone damage and tooth loss can occur. Regular self-care and dental visits can help prevent or control periodontal disease.

Gingivitis

This is the mildest form of periodontal disease. The gum becomes irritated and swollen (inflamed). The space between the gum and tooth gets deeper, forming a pocket. Gums may become red and may bleed. Or, there may be no symptoms. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.

Diagram showing a periodontal pocket between tooth and gum tissue during gum disease.

Periodontitis

Infection and inflammation spread to the bone supporting the teeth. Gums may recede (shrink back) from the teeth. Pockets between the teeth can get deeper and harder to clean. Redness, swelling, and bleeding may develop or get worse. Infection begins to destroy the bone. As bone is destroyed, teeth may start to feel loose.

Diagram showing gum pocket formation in periodontal disease with anatomical labels.

Advanced Periodontitis

As periodontitis advances, pockets deepen even more and can fill with pus. Around the roots of the teeth, the gums may start to swell. Bone loss continues. The teeth may feel sensitive to heat or cold and may hurt when brushed. Teeth loosen more. In some cases, teeth may need to be removed to keep the disease from spreading.

Dental pocket formation showing gum recession and bone loss in periodontal disease.

Glick & Woods Dentistry is Tullahoma’s most popular dental experience since 1985. Please call us at 931.455.3917 or fill out our online Request an Appointment form to arrange your consultation.