Gum disease often progresses painlessly, which is why you need to recognize the signs of a potential problem. Here are 5 signs of gum disease:
1. Red and Swollen Gums
One of the first signs of gum disease is red and swollen gums. Your gums should be pink and firm. Red, swollen gums indicate that your body is trying to fight off some kind of problem. Your gums won’t necessarily be painful, but if you notice that they are red and/or swollen, that’s an early sign of gum disease.
2. Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed during or after brushing or flossing your teeth, that’s a clear sign that you have gum disease. It’s not normal for your gums to bleed under any circumstances, so if you notice yours are bleeding, it’s time for a trip to the dentist.
3. Bad Breath or a Bad Taste in Your Mouth
If you have been told you have bad breath or if you notice that you often have a bad taste in your mouth, that could be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease occurs as a result of bacterial action in your mouth, and a bad smell or taste is a by-product of bacterial growth. If you notice that you have a problem with bad breath or you often get a bad taste in your mouth, you’ll want to make an appointment with your dentist.
4. Gum Recession
As gum disease progresses, your gums will recede from the tooth surface. This is a clear sign of gum disease, and it indicates that it’s progressing to an irreversible stage. Gum disease that goes untreated turns into periodontal disease.
That’s why you want to take action as soon as you notice you have a problem. If you see your gums are receding, you’ll want to get to the dentist as soon as you can.
5. Loose Teeth
If you have loose teeth, that’s a definite indicator of gum disease. In fact, that likely indicates it’s progressed into periodontal disease. While this is irreversible, it can be managed, but you need to take quick action at this point to avoid tooth loss.
Final Thoughts
Gum disease doesn’t only affect your oral health. It can also cause problems with your overall health. That’s why it’s vital to know the various signs of gum disease so that you and your dentist can take prompt action to treat it.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs of gum disease, give the office of Aesthetic Dental Partners a call today. We’ll get you smiling brightly once again.
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