Early Warning Signs of Gum Disease You Should Check For
Posted on 1/11/2021 by Hilton Israelson, DDS
Neglecting your oral hygiene means allowing plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, which contributes to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. If gum disease is detected in its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, it can often be reversed before it evolves into advanced periodontitis, a serious condition that can result in tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to come see us if you are showing any of the following early signs of gum disease.
Red or Swollen Gums
Healthy gums should be pale pink in color and fit firmly around your teeth without any visible puffiness or swelling. If your gums are dark pink or red, or if they feel tender and appear swollen, you probably have gingivitis.
Bleeding Gums While Brushing
Gingivitis causes your gums to become irritated and inflamed. When gums are inflamed, they may bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. This is not normal, so please let us know if you experience bleeding gums while brushing or flossing.
Bad Breath
There are many possible causes of bad breath, ranging from chronic dry mouth to the foods you eat. Gum disease can also cause bad breath due to plaque and bacteria building up on your teeth and along the gum line. If you have persistent bad breath that will not go away with brushing, chewing gum, using mouthwash, or drinking lots of water, this could be an early indicator of gum disease.
Sensitive Teeth
When your gum tissue becomes tender and inflamed due to gingivitis, you may experience heightened sensitivity to temperature changes, sugar, or acidic foods and beverages. When gum disease progresses beyond gingivitis, your gums may recede, causing even greater sensitivity as more of your tooth's surface is exposed.
If you have any of these early signs of gum disease, come see us as soon as possible. We can help you reverse your gingivitis through meticulous oral hygiene before it has a chance to progress into more advanced stages of periodontal disease. Schedule an appointment today.
Neglecting your oral hygiene means allowing plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, which contributes to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. If gum disease is detected in its earliest stage, known as gingivitis, it can often be reversed before it evolves into advanced periodontitis, a serious condition that can result in tooth loss. Therefore, it is important to come see us if you are showing any of the following early signs of gum disease.