Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common but often overlooked oral health condition that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. While it typically begins with mild symptoms, gum disease can progress quickly and silently, affecting not just your oral health but your overall well-being. Knowing the signs can help you seek early treatment and prevent long-term damage.
Bleeding Gums While Brushing or Flossing
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. While it may be tempting to dismiss a little blood as normal, healthy gums should not bleed during routine oral hygiene. Bleeding is often a result of inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. This stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and is generally reversible with proper care. Ignoring it, however, can allow the condition to advance.
Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
Occasional bad breath is common, especially after eating certain foods. However, if you notice that your breath remains unpleasant despite brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, it could be a warning sign. Gum disease causes bacteria to accumulate in the mouth, producing foul-smelling gases and a persistent bad taste. This is a symptom that many people overlook, but it can indicate a deeper problem below the gumline.
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Inflamed gums are another hallmark of gum disease. You might notice that your gums appear more red than usual or feel sore to the touch. This inflammation is your body’s response to bacterial infection. In the early stages, the swelling may be mild and painless, but as the disease progresses, it can become more severe, causing discomfort even when eating or speaking. Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink, not red and puffy.
Gum Recession and Longer-Looking Teeth
If your teeth seem to be getting longer or more of the tooth surface is visible, it may not be your imagination. Receding gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or even its root. Gum recession is a sign that the supporting tissues are breaking down. This can lead to increased sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures, and can also make the teeth more vulnerable to decay and damage.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
As gum disease progresses from gingivitis to periodontitis, it can affect the underlying bone that holds your teeth in place. This deterioration can cause teeth to become loose, shift, or develop gaps that weren’t there before. You may notice a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite, or that your dentures or partials no longer fit properly. These are serious signs that require immediate attention from a dental professional.
Pain or Discomfort While Chewing
Pain when chewing food can stem from a variety of causes, but in the context of gum disease, it often means the infection has reached a more advanced stage. As the bone and tissues around the teeth deteriorate, pressure and inflammation can make it uncomfortable to eat. This pain can also indicate abscesses or infections under the gumline, which are not only painful but potentially dangerous if they spread.
What To Do If You Notice These Signs
At Dazzling Dentistry, we are dedicated to your oral health. If you experience red, swollen, or bleeding gums, do not hesitate to reach out. The sooner you get treatment, the more likely you are to reverse the progression of gum disease. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your gums.