Advanced periodontitis is a gum disease that effects the jaw bones as well as the teeth, and it affects people of all ages, races and genders. Causes of this gum disease can range from a compromised immune system to smoking tobacco products, and suffering from common ailments like the flu. Poor diet choices and lack of proper hygiene also play a role in developing gum diseases like periodontitis.
Inflammation
One of the first symptoms of any gum disease, and periodontitis in particular, is inflammation. The swelling of the periodontium, or gum tissue, can occur with little or no pain. When pain does occur during swelling, this could mean that there is a localized infection, mainly due to tooth decay.
Discoloration
When the periodontium begins to display patches of purple or red color, this can be a sign of aggressive periodontitis. The changes in color are usually a sign of tissue damage due to inflammation and infection.
Tenderness
Gums may feel tender to the touch, especially in the areas closest to the teeth. Brushing your teeth may aggravate this condition further, and the periodontium may bleed and become painful. Switching to a softer-bristled toothbrush can remedy in soothing the tenderness that occurs with gum disease.
Gum Recession
Someone who is suffering from aggressive periodontitis may notice that their gums are appearing to pull away from their teeth. This is called a recessive gum line. Basically, the periodontium begins to deteriorate, exposing the tooth.
Gapping
During the recession of the gum line, new gaps will form between the teeth. This is because human teeth taper as they go down into the jaw, forming a root. As the gum line pulls away from the teeth, this tapering becomes apparent. Eventually, gaps will appear, changing the appearance of your mouth.
Infection and Necrosis
The later stages of aggressive periodontitis come with the appearance of pus between the teeth, nearest the gum lines. When pus is apparent, this is usually due to necrosis of the periodontium tissue. The gums experience discoloration, varying in hue from deep red to a greenish gray tint.
Tooth and Bone Loss
Recession of gum tissues, and necrotic infection, will mostly result in the loss of many teeth in a seemingly short period of time. Many who suffer during the latter stages of aggressive periodontitis experience increased tooth decay, losing as many as five teeth in a 6-month span. Tooth decay at this point is normally painless because of nerve damage, unless infection sets in. Softening and loss of parts of the jaw bone also occur.
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