8 Key Signs of Gum Disease and When to Seek Periodontal Treatment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of American adults aged 30 and over suffer from gum disease. As one of the major reasons for tooth loss in adults, gum disease occurs when there is an infection in the tissues surrounding teeth. Many factors can contribute to gum disease, including poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, certain medications, hormonal changes, diabetes, and genetic disposition.

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   Bleeding Gums

One of the key signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. This can occur when you brush your teeth, floss, or even when you eat. If your gums bleed frequently, it could signify that you have gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. In some cases, bleeding gums can be a sign of other health problems.

2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

Another common sign of gum disease is red, swollen, or tender gums. This can be caused by inflammation as bacteria accumulate in the spaces between your teeth and gums.

3. Receding Gums

Receding gums is one of the top symptoms of gum disease. This occurs when the gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface. In mild cases, receding gums may only be noticeable when brushing or flossing. However, in more severe cases, the gums may recede to the point where they are visible even when the mouth is at rest.

4. Loose Teeth

Loose teeth are one of the key signs of gum disease and often indicate that the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage, and they can be extremely worrisome. In the early stages of gum disease, gums may become irritated, red, and inflamed. This inflammation can cause the gums to separate from the teeth, creating pockets that trap bacteria and other debris. Over time, this bacterial buildup can damage the supporting structures of the teeth, causing them to become loose.

5. Persistent Bad Breath

For most people, bad breath can be easily remedied with a quick trip to the dentist or a vigorous round of brushing and flossing. However, bad breath can be a persistent problem for those who suffer from gum disease. In its early stages, gum disease may only cause occasional bad breath. However, if left untreated, it can progress to more serious problems, including pain, tooth loss, and even tissue damage.

6. A Change in the Fit of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are a common treatment for those who have lost some, but not all, of their teeth. If you have partial dentures, paying close attention to how they fit is important. A change in the fit of your dentures can be one of the early signs of gum disease. As the disease progresses, the gums may begin to recede, which can cause the dentures to become loose or ill-fitting.

7. Teeth Sensitivity

When you experience pain or discomfort when eating hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods, it could signify gum disease. This pain occurs because the gums are receding and the roots of your teeth are becoming exposed. The roots of your teeth do not have a protective coating of enamel like the rest of your teeth, so they are much more sensitive to temperature changes and acidic foods.

8. Pus Between the Teeth and Gums

One of the key signs of gum disease is pus between the teeth and gums. This is usually a result of an infection and can be quite painful. If you notice pus between your teeth and gums, it’s important to see a dentist or periodontist. They will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection and may also recommend that you have your gums cleaned. They may also recommend surgery to remove the infected tissue in some cases.

If you have these signs above, it’s important to see a dentist or periodontist for an evaluation. Periodontists are specially trained to treat gum disease and can provide you with the care you need to keep your gums healthy. To know how a dentist cure gum problems completely, visit our website https://wnyhealthshow.com/. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing gum disease from progressing and causing more serious damage. If left untreated, gum disease can have serious consequences for your oral health and even heart disease.