Learn the Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Did you know that over half of adults in the United States have some form of gum disease? While it may seem like this condition only impacts your healthy smile, it has also been linked to many life-threatening systemic diseases, like heart disease. 

Early detection and intervention by a Williamsville family dentist are vital in preventing gum disease from worsening to periodontitis. Left to progress, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, gum recession, and bone loss. By recognizing the warning signs of gum disease, you will know when it’s time to schedule a dental appointment so you can avoid the problems it can create.  

As you complete your daily oral hygiene routine, look for the following 6 symptoms of gum disease. If you notice one or more, take action right away to stop it in its tracks. 

1. Red, Swollen Gums

When plaque and tartar collect near your gums, they can irritate the tissue and make it inflamed over time. Your gums then become red and swollen, sometimes hurting when you touch them. This is often the first sign of gum disease; in the early stages, it’s called gingivitis. You might spot these symptoms early enough that it won’t advance to the next stage, but when left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis.

This can all be reversed by amping up your oral hygiene routine and seeking dental treatment. 

2. Bleeding Gums

When you brush, floss, or eat, do you sometimes get a metallic taste in your mouth? This can be due to bleeding gums. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed during your oral hygiene routine or when eating. If you find that your gums do bleed, it might be because you’re brushing or flossing too hard or something you ate irritated the tissues in your mouth. Or, it could be a warning sign of gum disease.

When you have gum disease, your tissue becomes sensitive to routine oral care and basic manipulation. If your gums start bleeding on their own, it could mean your gum disease has advanced to periodontitis. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t stop brushing and flossing to avoid this bleeding because plaque accumulation will only worsen. Schedule an appointment with your dentist right away to begin treatment. 

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Everyone has experienced bad breath before, and quickly popping in a mint or rinsing with mouthwash can often get rid of it. However, constant stinky breath may be a sign of poor oral health. When too much plaque and bacteria stick to your teeth, your breath will start to stink because of the accumulation of these germs. Picture a million smelly bacteria piling up inside your gums. 

As gum disease progresses, it causes your gum tissue to pull away from the bone, creating deep pockets that are perfect for bacteria to hide, making your breath smell. The best way to address your chronic bad breath is to visit your dentist. A professional cleaning or deep cleaning can help resolve the problem. 

4. Receding Gums 

Have you noticed the pink gum tissue around your tooth shrinking? That is called gum recession, and it happens when the gums start to move away from the tooth, showing more of the tooth and root. In these instances, your teeth might appear to be longer, or they may become extra sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks. 

Sometimes, gum recession can be caused by aggressive brushing, whether you’re using too much force or a hard-bristled brush. Although gum recession from aggressive brushing can cause sensitivity, it’s less alarming than recession related to gum disease.

Healthy gums should gently surround the tooth, like a turtleneck does to your neck. When gum tissue isn’t snug, it can form deep pockets, making it easier for bacteria to grow and worsen your condition. This process can harm your gums and the bone that secures your teeth in place.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Unless you have baby teeth, it’s never good when a tooth becomes loose. Changes in the mobility of a tooth can indicate that your gum disease is progressing. As the gums and jawbone holding your tooth deteriorates, teeth that were once stable can shift or become loose. 

6. Pain or Discomfort

Shifting teeth can impact how they come together and lead to changes in your bite, which can affect your temporomandibular joint and cause symptoms of TMJ disorder (TMD). This condition causes jaw pain that can lead to headaches and neck and shoulder pain. At this stage of gum disease, you may also experience pain when you chew. The longer you the infection continues, the worse the pain gets as the gums recede and the jawbone continues to deteriorate. 

Stop the progression of gum disease by understanding the signs.

One of the best things you can do for your oral health is pay attention when brushing and flossing. If you notice red, swollen gums or bleeding after brushing, you may have gum disease. Any changes to your bite, spots of recession, or chronic bad breath should be addressed by a qualified, affordable dentist in Williamsville. 

Schedule your routine dental visit with Dr. Kathleen Balthasar, DDS, so she can assess your oral health. She’ll look for any signs of gum deterioration and recommend suitable treatment options for your condition. Contact us today to get started.