08 Aug 6 Signs Your Gum Disease is Serious
When it comes to oral health, taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. You may have heard gum disease mentioned in your dentist’s office or in a Listerine commercial, but do you know how to recognize it?
Below, we will talk about 5 signs that indicate your gum disease is serious and needs immediate treatment.
1. Swollen and Sore Gums
Swollen and inflamed gums are one of gum disease’s first serious signs. They can be red and painful when brushing, especially along the gum line. However, the infection hasn’t yet moved from the gum tissue to the bone at this stage.
2. Bleeding Gums
When you brush and floss, are you spitting blood into the sink? Once inflammation and sensitivity have set in, it is common for gums to bleed while performing daily hygiene.
3. Bad Breath
Continual bad breath, called halitosis, is a telltale sign of gum disease. This is because the warm, moist environment of your mouth is the perfect place for bacteria to grow, especially if there is a lot of plaque. The bacteria releases irritating, foul-smelling toxins.
4. Receding Gums
Do your teeth look like they are getting longer? If so, your gums are shrinking, which is a sign of the bone breaking down. The receding gums leave pockets around your teeth that attract even more food and bacteria.
5. Sensitive Teeth
Receding gums uncover the sensitive part of your teeth and can make it painful to drink cold water or have a bite of ice cream. If cold or heat makes you wince, have your dentist check your gums to see if the dentin is exposed.
6. Loose Teeth
When your gums shrink, your teeth are no longer secure. Periodontitis could be the culprit if it looks like your teeth are shifting or if they feel loose. Therefore, it’s critical to see a dentist or periodontist right away.
Conclusion
Gum disease is a common condition that can drastically affect oral health. Be on the lookout for these 5 signs that your gum disease is serious. When you brush and floss, take notice if your gums feel tender and swollen and if they bleed. Look in the mirror and check for receding gums. Are your teeth sensitive, or do they feel loose? See your dentist as soon as possible to prevent serious damage.
Set up a personal consultation here if you have any questions or concerns!