Periodontal disease is a type of infection of the gums that is caused by not following a good oral hygiene routine. When plaque is allowed to build up on the teeth, it can lead to gum disease. If left untreated it can cause tooth loss and eventually the deterioration of the jawbone. There are several warning signs that alert you to problems with your gums. Here are the signs to look for if you want to catch gum disease early when it is easily treatable.
Early Signs of Gum Disease
Red, sensitive, or swollen gums
When gums are healthy, they are pink and firm. They are not sensitive to any pressure. If you notice your gums turn red, especially the gum lines around and between the teeth. Sometimes, this is the first sign that there is a problem. Other early signs include inflammation or sensitive gums. Sometimes, if you catch the problem early enough improving your brushing technique can help to resolve the issue.
Bleeding
If your gums bleed it is a sign of trouble. If you brush your teeth too hard or floss infrequently, this kind of bleeding should stop quickly. However, if your gums bleed regularly or after gentle touches, it is a sign that tissue is weak and not connected properly to the teeth.
Chronic Halitosis
It might sound odd, but bad breath can often be a sign of an unhealthy mouth. Bad breath can be caused by something like garlic or fish that you have eaten recently. But other than that, bad breath is caused by bacteria in the mouth. Healthy mouths also have bacteria, but having bad breath persist after brushing and flossing can mean there are deep-seated bacteria that aren’t getting cleaned out thoroughly. This can happen if the gums recede and small pockets form and bacteria get trapped there.
Deep Spaces Between the Teeth and Receding Gums
As we age, some mild gum recession is natural. However, if the gums recede too fast or to the point where they become sensitive, it can be a symptom of gum disease. When the gums recede, nerves close to the roots of teeth become exposed. This can be very painful and require a trip to your Glenview dentist for dental care. Gum recession can often be accompanied by bleeding, bad breath, or sensitivity. You may notice that more of your teeth are exposed along the gum line than before. If you notice this, schedule an exam with Dr. Attar to be checked for more significant issues.
Periodontal Pockets Form
When gum disease goes undiagnosed and untreated, gums can recede quite a bit. When they recede too far, pockets form along the gum line. These are called periodontal pockets that begin to act as reservoirs where bacteria begin to collect. Bacteria will eventually start to eat away at your gums and advance underneath the gum tissue. This can lead to a high risk of infection which can result in tooth or tissue loss. It can even need gum surgery to correct in some cases.
Prevention Is Essential
When it comes to your dental care, prevention is important. When you are aware of the early signs of gum disease you can take quick action. If you notice any of these signs, contact Dr. Attar at Attar Smiles for an exam. Prevention is best, but if you develop any symptoms, early treatment offers the best chance of improvement.
Contact Attar Smiles
Regular exams are important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Many times, Dr. Attar discovers early signs of gum disease during routine exams. Call us today and schedule your exam today.
