Do you wonder about the health of your gums? If you do, you are probably witnessing some disturbing signs of gum disease, also called periodontal disease. Poor gum health can lead to heart disease also, so it’s critical to be aware of its early symptoms. But don’t worry. You are in the right place!
This blog post is here to explain what gum disease is and how to spot its signs. So, let’s get started!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a painful and disturbing oral health issue impacting the gums and tissues around the teeth. It happens when plaque is not effectively eliminated by frequent brushing and flossing. As a result, you end up with a sticky layer of germs on the teeth and along the gumline, causing gum irritation and infection.
Periodontal disease can advance to more severe stages, causing bone loss in teeth, tooth loss, and possibly harming general health. Therefore, starting its treatment as soon as it is detected is vital.
5 Signs Of Gum Disease
Are your gums trying to tell you something? While it may not always be obvious, there are certain warning signs that can indicate the presence of periodontal disease. The top 5 are:-
1. Gum Bleeding
Bleeding gums are one of the most prevalent signs of gum disease. It’s time to pay attention if you discover blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after brushing or flossing. Under normal conditions, healthy gum tissue is callous and should not bleed.
Thus this might be a sign that something is wrong. It is probable that irritants such as bacteria and tartar buildup are causing irritation of the soft tissues, making them more susceptible to bleed.
2. Gums That Are Red & Puffy
Healthy gums are rosy in color and firm in feel. However, gum infections cause an immune system response that results in the production of antibodies in the gum tissue to combat the bacteria. This leads to gingival inflammation and tissue loss. Unless treated, the gum becomes inflamed and may appear dark red.
So, if your gums are red, inflamed, or puffy, this might be an indication of gum disease. Any changes in the look of your gums should be noted as an early warning indicator.
3. Sensitive Teeth
Do you suffer pain or discomfort when you consume hot or cold meals and beverages? This might be a sign of gum disease. The infection can cause your gums to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth as it develops. This might cause heightened sensitivity, making it critical to address the issue as soon as possible.
However, there can be other factors leading to sensitivity in teeth, such as cavities, eroded enamel, and chipped teeth. Your dentist can confirm if the sensitivity is due to gum disease or other oral health issues.
4. A Gingival Abscess
Due to weakening gum tissues, the typically narrow space between the tooth and gum may enlarge, resulting in a vacuum known as a periodontal pocket. This is a place where bacteria and tartar can accumulate, causing pus to grow. This finally establishes an abscess, producing discomfort and swelling.
If you see a bulge or pimple-like structure on your gums, you should seek expert dental treatment right away.
5. Loose Teeth
Your teeth may become loose in the later stages of gum disease. This occurs when gum disease weakens the supporting components of your teeth, causing them to move more easily.
Infections caused by bacteria can form pockets beneath the gum line where the gum separates from the tooth. This can develop to decay, which can cause pain and bone loss in teeth. If you observe any changes in the stability of your teeth, get quick dental care.
Early detection and treatment are critical when it comes to periodontal disease. If you experience any of these signs of gum disease, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. They can provide the necessary guidance and treatment to keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.
Remember that consistent dental hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups, can help prevent gum disease. Look after your gums, and they’ll look after you. Your smile deserves the finest possible care!
Author Bio
Shen Chao is part of Dr. Joshua Hong’s Smile Clinic. While working for the Smile Clinic, he’s gained first-hand experience with the questions and concerns that dental patients have. He has been writing to inform people about various dental topics to help his readers improve their oral health. When he’s not working, you can find him on a hiking trail with his dog or having a Sunday cook-out with friends.
