Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a disease that affects the tissues around the teeth. Gum disease is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time when left untreated. It often develops gradually and may not be painful, making it harder to detect in the early stages. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the signs of gum disease as early as possible to ensure prompt treatment and limited damage. Read on to learn more about the signs of gum disease and what you can do about them.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar under the gum lines. It first begins as gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gums due to this build up. Left untreated, this buildup eventually causes pockets to form between the gums and teeth. These pockets allow bacteria to grow and eventually infect the tissue. This stage of gum disease is called periodontitis, and it has more serious consequences.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gum disease has very clear signs that when noticed early enough can be treated to prevent worsening infection and damage. The most common signs of gum disease are:
- Bleeding Gums: One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing your teeth. Healthy gums should not bleed easily. If you notice blood in the sink after brushing or flossing, this could be a sign of gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease.
- Swollen or Puffy Gums: Swelling in the gums is another common sign of gum disease. Inflamed gums often appear redder than usual, and they may feel tender or sore when touched. Swelling can also lead to a puffy appearance, especially around the gumline.
- Chronic Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath is another sign of gum disease. As bacteria accumulate along the gumline and between teeth, they create an unpleasant odor. While bad breath can be caused by various factors, when it’s ongoing and doesn’t improve with regular brushing, it can be a sign of gum disease.
- Receding Gums: Gum recession is a common sign of advanced gum disease. If your gums begin to pull back from the teeth, exposing more of your tooth or even the tooth’s root, it’s a cause for concern and a sign of gum disease.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Sensitivity in your teeth, especially to hot or cold food and beverages, can be a sign of gum disease. When gum disease causes gum recession, it exposes the roots of your teeth, which are more sensitive than the crown.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth: In more advanced cases of gum disease, the gums and bone that support your teeth may begin to deteriorate, causing teeth to become loose or shift. If your teeth feel unstable or if your bite seems to have changed, it’s a sign of gum disease. If you wear dentures or other prosthetics, changes to how they fit is similarly a sign of gum disease.
- Pus Between Teeth and Gums: The presence of pus between the teeth and gums is a strong indicator of an infection. This often occurs when bacteria cause an abscess in the gums, leading to swelling, pain, and pus formation.
To learn more about gum disease and treatment options, reach out today.