Signs of Gum Disease – What to Watch Out for
Gum disease may sound daunting, but if you catch it early treatment can be simple.
The problem is that gum disease often exists without producing any noticeable symptoms. This means it can become quite advanced before you are even aware of it.
In the early stages of gum disease, the gum tissue in your mouth has simply become inflamed. This can happen due to:
- Hormonal changes, such as those taking place during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause
- General ill health due to viruses, colds or stress
- Poor oral hygiene as a result of not brushing and flossing regularly
- Poor diet, particularly the consumption of a high sugar diet, alcohol or tobacco use
Today we’re going to explain the different stages of gum disease and highlight the signs and symptoms that you should be looking out for.
Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease is known as Gingivitis.
At this stage you may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Red, sore or swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing (you may notice red tinged toothpaste when you rinse)
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth and persistent bad breath
This condition can be treated by:
- Brushing gently – especially where the gum is swollen
- Brushing regularly with a quality toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste
- Improving general health – this includes strengthening the immune system, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting quality rest and hydration
Periodontitis
If your gingivitis goes unrecognised and untreated, it may develop into periodontitis.
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Bleeding and swollen gums
- Pain in the tooth or jaw
- Persistent unpleasant breath
Periodontitis occurs when the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, exposing pockets. These pockets allow food particles and bacteria to accumulate and begin to infect the gum. This causes tooth decay and gum disease and it can eventually reach the bone which makes up the jaw.
Periodontitis can also lead to tooth loss. If you suspect you may have reached this stage of gum disease, make an appointment with your dentist.
A consultation with the professional friendly team at Greenslopes Dental will ensure that no further damage occurs. A professional treatment will save your teeth, reduce future treatment costs and improve your quality of life.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis occurs when treatment for periodontitis has not been pursued.
At this stage, your supporting gums and bone are at risk of extensive decay. Advanced periodontitis requires a course of treatment from your dentist to save teeth where possible and restore oral health.
Getting Help
Whether you have gingivitis or advanced gum disease, it is vital that it does not go untreated.
Advanced gum disease can affect your whole body. Once it reaches the bloodstream it can even increase your risk of heart attack and immune related issues, while causing complications for diabetics.
If you’re concerned about the health of your gums, talk to Greenslopes Dental today. As experienced local dentists for Woolloongabba, Coorparoo and Holland Park, we can provide the best treatment for you.
Schedule an appointment online today or give us a call on 07 3394 3399. Our experts will be there for you.