The leading cause of periodontitis is bacterial plaque — a sticky film that constantly forms on teeth.
If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, creating pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria thrive.
Stage 1 – Gingivitis (Inflammation)
This early stage is marked by swollen, red gums that bleed during brushing or flossing.
At this point, the damage is still reversible with professional cleaning and good oral care.Stage 2 – Early Periodontitis
Bacteria begin attacking the bone and ligaments supporting the teeth. Gums may start to recede slightly, forming small pockets that trap food and bacteria. Mild bone loss may also begin.
Stage 3 – Moderate Periodontitis
The infection deepens, destroying more bone and tissue. Gums pull further away from teeth, and pockets deepen. Teeth may become loose, and bad breath becomes noticeable.
Stage 4 – Advanced Periodontitis
This is the most severe stage, leading to extensive bone and tissue loss. Teeth can become mobile or even fall out. In some cases, surgical treatment is required to stabilise the gums and restore function.
In its early stages, periodontitis may cause minimal discomfort, but as it advances, symptoms can become more noticeable.
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gum recession (teeth appearing longer)
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pain when chewing
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Tooth sensitivity
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to book an emergency appointment to prevent further damage.
- Measuring pocket depth around teeth
- Checking gum recession
- Digital X-rays or OPG scans to assess bone loss
Accurate diagnosis helps us determine the best course of treatment to restore gum health and prevent tooth loss.
Non-surgical treatment includes:
- Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar below the gum line.
- Antibiotic therapy: Medications to control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.
Surgical options (for advanced cases):
- Flap surgery: Lifting the gums to remove deeper deposits of bacteria.
- Bone or tissue grafts: Rebuilding lost structures to restore stability and support.
Untreated periodontitis can lead to severe oral and general health problems, such as:
- Tooth mobility and tooth loss
- Bone destruction around teeth
- Increased risk of systemic infections
- Complications in diabetes or heart disease
Because the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, managing gum health is vital for your overall well-being.
The best way to prevent gum disease is through consistent oral hygiene and regular check-ups.
Our Brisbane dentists recommend
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing or using interdental brushes
- Visiting your dentist every 6 months for cleaning
- Avoiding smoking and controlling sugar intake
- Managing underlying health conditions
Early intervention prevents gum inflammation from progressing to advanced stages of periodontitis.
If you experience gum bleeding, bad breath, or receding gums, don’t wait — these are warning signs of gum disease.
Our team at Brisbane Emergency Dentist is available 24/7 to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions for all gum conditions.