IDENTIFYING SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE

Gum disease begins as an inflammation of the gum line around the tooth. If left unattended it can affect the bone that surrounds and supports that tooth. It progresses through three stages. The first is gingivitis which can be quickly reversed. Then it periodontitis with serious side effects and finally will end up as advanced periodontitis with long term effects. Here are some warning signs that you may experience.

The Symptoms of gum disease

The onset of gum disease is not painful. The only thing you might encounter in this warning area is that of a tenderness around the tooth. Tender to the touch of it or if food touches it or even discomfort eating harder foods. Chewing can get painful over time. Most of the symptoms are all visual. According to the CDC the most common symptoms start with some light bleeding when you brush your teeth. If your toothbrush is pink when you are finished you might have early gum disease. Even flossing can cause some bleeding. If you look in the mirror, smile big, and you see that your gums might look swollen or if they might look a bit redder than what you consider is normal. Gums can look bright red, dusky red or even purplish. These are symptoms. If your significant other complains on a regular basis about your breath, or if you think you have a bad taste in your mouth, these are regular symptoms. The gum disease is advancing if you find a loose tooth or if you can see pockets where your gums are receding away from a tooth or two. Pockets will make your tooth look longer. Even if you feel your bite pattern, how you teeth fit together, is different. Pus between your teeth and gums if certainly a huge warning sign. If you have any of the above call your dentist as soon as possible and get an exam scheduled. The dentist can confirm your suspicions and take the necessary measures to stop the advancement of the gum disease further. It will take at least two weeks to abate the disease and see a reversal. Unfortunately if you have loss gum tissue to gum disease the gums cannot grow back.

Preventive Measures

The best approach is to simply follow the health organizations suggestions and brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once. Gum disease is a result of the build-up of plaque on your teeth. Plaque that carries bacteria and creates infection in the gums. With regular brushing you can prohibit that plaque from sticking to your teeth. It is also strongly recommended that you see your dentist twice a year for regular checkups. These exams will include a visual review, x-rays to see what is going on under the surface, and will include a good professional cleaning. The dentist or hygienist will remove any and all plaque that you have missed. Most importantly, they can remove any plaque at and below the gum line to prohibit gum disease from getting started.

Mobile's West Mobile Dental Care is an advanced general and cosmetic dentist that can help you with most stages of your gum disease / periodontal issues. Contact our office today to find out more.

If you're just interested in learning more about gum disease and information regarding, here's some supplementary reading looking for signs of gum disease..