Gum disease can be easily treated when it’s caught early, but the condition comes with more severe symptoms and requires more complex interventions if it has the opportunity to progress to a more advanced form. Therefore, patients should monitor their gum tissue for warning signs that periodontal disease may be present. If you notice any of these issues, you should consult with your family dentist for an evaluation and treatment.
- Redness or swelling in the gums: This symptom indicates inflammation in the gum tissue and is often a sign of gingivitis, which is the mildest form of gum disease.
- Bleeding gums: Bleeding in the gum tissue is always a cause for concern, even if it only happens when you’re brushing or flossing your teeth. If you experience this symptom, be sure to inform your dentist.
- Bad breath: If you have persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away despite diligence in your oral hygiene routine, it could mean that disease-causing bacteria are building up along your gumline.
- Pockets between the gums and the teeth: This symptom represents more advanced periodontal disease and may need to be treated surgically depending on the extent of the damage to gum tissue. Your dentist can evaluate you and suggest possible treatment options.
Patients cannot resolve gum disease on their own, so they must seek care at their family dentistry practice. If the disease is not diagnosed until the later stages, it may be necessary to see a specialist for treatment. However, gingivitis typically responds to a thorough professional dental cleaning with no need for more invasive interventions.
Gum disease can ultimately result in tooth and bone loss, among other consequences, if it’s not addressed promptly. Knowing the signs of gum disease and monitoring your smile for these issues can give you a head start on identifying the condition and seeking treatment as early as possible. Call our office to schedule an evaluation if you notice any gum disease symptoms.
