While many people think of “gum disease” as a single issue, it is actually a spectrum of conditions. Identifying which version you are dealing with is the first step toward saving your smile.
1. Gingivitis: The Only Reversible Stage
The mildest of the types of periodontal disease is gingivitis. It is caused by plaque biofilm accumulating at the gumline, leading to inflammation. If your gums bleed when you floss or appear bright red, you likely have gingivitis.
The good news is that at this stage, the bone and connective tissue holding your teeth in place are still intact. We can often reverse this condition entirely with a professional laser scaling and root planing treatment and a refined home care routine.
2. Chronic Periodontitis: The Most Common Form
Chronic periodontitis is the most frequent diagnosis we make at Chula Vista Periodontics. It is characterized by the slow, progressive destruction of the bone and attachment tissues. You may notice receding gums or “pockets” forming between the tooth and the gum.
To treat this, Dr. Susan Nguyen typically utilizes LANAP® laser gum surgery. This advanced technology allows us to kill the bacteria causing the infection without the need for traditional scalpels or sutures.
3. Aggressive Periodontitis
Unlike the chronic version, aggressive periodontitis occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy. It involves rapid loss of gum attachment and bone destruction, often occurring in “bursts.” This type often has a genetic component and requires immediate intervention from a specialist periodontist to prevent total tooth loss.
4. Periodontitis as a Manifestation of Systemic Diseases
Periodontal disease is often a “canary in the coal mine” for other health issues. This type of gum disease is associated with systemic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness, and diabetes. We take a holistic approach to these cases, focusing on the oral-systemic health connection to ensure your treatment supports your body’s overall well-being.
5. Necrotizing Periodontal Diseases
These are severe, painful infections of the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. These are most commonly observed in individuals with systemic conditions such as HIV, malnutrition, or extreme chronic stress. Because these cases involve tissue death (necrosis), they require urgent specialized care and sometimes specialist tooth extractions if the teeth cannot be salvaged.
Which Type Are You Facing? Get Answers Today.
The treatment for gum disease depends entirely on which type you have and how far it has progressed. Don’t guess when it comes to your health. Schedule your comprehensive periodontal exam in Chula Vista today or call our office at (619) 425-9770 to speak with our team.
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