Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is no laughing matter. The onset of gum disease tends to be gradual, which means that it can be reversible with proper dental care if caught early enough. The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis.

For some people, the early stages of gum disease can go unnoticed. Unfortunately, this is also the stage at which the disease is most reversible. Gum disease is technically an infection, which only gets worse over time.

If left untreated, gum disease can have serious outcomes, including tooth loss. That’s why you need to take it seriously if Benedict Kim, DDS and his team at A Caring Dental Group tell you that you have the early stages of gum disease, also called periodontal disease. Here are the top warning signs of gum disease.

Red or swollen gums

Red or swollen gums can be a sign of either gingivitis or periodontal disease. Generally, if your gums are swollen and even a little tender, it may only indicate inflammation. At this point, the redness and swelling may still be at the early stages. 

If your gums are swollen, red, and in pain, it’s likely to be a more advanced stage of the disease. The best thing to do is to talk to the A Caring Dental Group team about your gums, regardless of how red or swollen they are.

Bleeding gums

Bleeding gums are often one of the earliest signs of gum disease. Bleeding gums can also be the result of leukemia or certain vitamin deficiencies. But by far the most common cause of bleeding gums is plaque buildup on your teeth.

When plaque builds up on your teeth, the bacteria irritates and inflames your gums. This is why you should keep up with regular dental cleanings because cleanings remove plaque. If the hygienist or Dr. Kim tells you that you have more plaque than average, you may need to have more frequent cleanings.

Persistent bad breath

Bad breath — also known as halitosis — is more than just unpleasant and embarrassing. Persistent bad breath that can’t be explained by just an extra garlicky lunch can be a sign of gum disease.

Bad breath is often the result of food particles left in your mouth. As gum disease advances, you may be more likely to get these particles stuck in your gums.

Receding gums

When your gums are receding, your teeth may look longer than before. When your gum line starts to pull away from your teeth, it’s a sign that gum disease is starting to progress.

Make an appointment at A Caring Dental Group if your gums are starting to recede. There are procedures he can do that can help prevent further gum loss.

Loose or shifting teeth

It’s only normal to have loose teeth when you’re 6 years old and waiting for the tooth fairy. If your teeth are loose or shifting in the gums when you’re an adult, it’s a sign of a problem. 

You may notice that your teeth are loose or shifting if your bite is different from before. You may have uneven wear on your teeth or mild jaw pain as a result. Like the other signs above, this is a situation that definitely calls for the help of a competent dentist like Dr. Kim.

Signs of early gum disease are a good reason to be concerned, but gum disease is a reversible condition when you take the right actions. Call 216-230-9094 to make an appointment at our office or book an appointment online.