Recognize Gum Disease Symptoms to Get Timely Treatment
Periodontal gum disease is a very serious problem that can cause you to lose your teeth if it’s not treated in time. It’s a progressive inflammatory condition that affects gum tissue and bones that surround your teeth. When it reaches the advanced stage (advanced periodontitis), the inflammation gets so bad that the damage to the tissues might make it impossible to replace your lost teeth with implants. Therefore, it’s imperative to recognize gum disease symptoms as soon as they occur and get proper treatment immediately.
Gum Disease Symptoms to Watch Out For
One of the reasons why this condition is so dangerous is that it may go unnoticed for a very long time because it might be completely painless. Be sure to look out for the following signs and symptoms and contact a dentist if you notice any of them:
- Gum bleeding that occurs when you brush or floss your teeth
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Bad breath that persists and doesn’t have any specific reason
- Loose teeth
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth
- Changes in the way your teeth come together or in the fit of partial dentures
- Receding gums that bare parts of the tooth (exposed teeth can be very sensitive)
- Sharp or dull pain that occurs when chewing, especially with hard foods
- Pus in the gums (around teeth)
- Extreme teeth sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
Each of these gum disease symptoms is a serious cause for concern, so be sure to consult a professional, no matter how minor the issue. Bear in mind that this condition damages tissues irreversibly starting from stage 2 (periodontitis), so you should have it treated as fast as possible.
Gum Disease Prevention
The main cause of this condition is a bacterial infection, so the most effective preventative measure is maintaining proper oral hygiene. Flossing plays a particularly important part, as toothbrush cannot remove all particles of food effectively.
Regular dental plaque removal is another important procedure for preventing gum disease. It does not only remove dangerous bacteria but also allows the dentist to inspect your teeth in detail and notice any signs of the disease you might have missed.
Contact Dr. Jeanne Taylor office to arrange a visit today and ensure your teeth stay healthy for years to come.