4 Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, receding gums or teeth appearing longer, tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, and loose teeth in advanced stages. Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible. If symptoms are present, see a dentist promptly.
Proper dental hygiene, including brushing, flossing, fluoride use, and regular dental examinations and cleanings, is necessary for more than just cosmetic reasons. One of the consequences of not taking good care of teeth and gums is gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease.
Signs of gum disease
1. Gum issues
Changes in the gums are the main signs of periodontal disease. In the earlier stages of gingivitis, the gums may be irritated, inflamed, puffy, and feel tender to the touch. Periodontal disease causes gums to bleed more than usual. The more severe stages also result in gums that pull away from the teeth, causing teeth to appear longer than normal.
2. Chronic bad breath
If someone has persistent bad breath, this may be an indication of gum disease. The bacteria release gasses that cause smelly breath, and blood in the mouth from bleeding gums can result in a persistent bad taste as well.
3. Teeth sensitivity
As the periodontal disease gets worse and the gums pull away from the teeth, the roots of the teeth begin to be exposed. Because they are not protected by enamel, they are sensitive to cold and hot temperatures.
4. Loose teeth
When teeth roots are exposed for some time, the teeth lose stability. The toxins released from tartar beneath the gum line attack the bone and supportive connective tissue. This may result in loose teeth. This sign indicates late-stage gum disease.
Risk factors for gum disease
Anyone can be prone to periodontal disease, but certain factors increase the risk. Smoking is one of the biggest ones, as smokers develop gum disease twice as often as non-smokers. Other factors include genetics, hormone changes in females, diabetes, certain illnesses and their treatments, and medications that reduce the production of saliva or cause gum tissue overgrowth.
Conclusion
Untreated gum disease can lead to a variety of unwanted dental consequences. Periodontitis can be avoided with proper dental hygiene and regular professional cleanings and examinations. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and get the care you need.
Dr. Adela Haratz, DDS
Dr. Adela Haratz is the founder of Haratz Dental and has more than 40 years of experience in dentistry. She is recognized as an aesthetic and scientific authority in dental artistry and facial aesthetics, and fellow dentists regularly turn to her for continuing education.
She earned her degree from the University of Miami and opened her private practice in Aventura in 2010. A member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Haratz focuses on veneers, smile design, full mouth rehabilitation, and root canal therapy. She and her team care for patients in English, Spanish, and Hebrew near Aventura, FL.