People can’t really say they have a healthy mouth unless their gums are healthy. Any Shingle Springs family dentist will tell you that gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in the U.S. adult population. If left undetected and untreated, this condition can lead to severe health issues, such as bone loss, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. For this reason, it’s best to be aware of the common symptoms of gum disease.
What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?
Bad Breath
Studies show that around 80% of all gum disease patients have bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, occurs when food particles and bacteria linger inside the mouth and release foul odors. Since bad breath can be a source of embarrassment for many, it can seriously affect one’s quality of life. If no amount of brushing or flossing can eliminate your bad breath, it’s best to see your dentist.
Gum Recession
Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls away from teeth and exposes the tooth roots underneath the gums. Besides making teeth appear longer than usual, receding gums can leave pockets or gaps between teeth. Over time, food debris, plaque, and bacteria can build up in these gum pockets, leading to tooth loss.
Loose Teeth Tooth Loss
When plaque, tartar, and bacteria build up on your gums, they irritate the gum tissue until they break down the jawbone that holds teeth in place. As the bone loses density and disintegrates, the tooth becomes loose until it falls out. However, replacing lost teeth with dental implants will prevent the bone from wearing away even after tooth loss. The implants will act as tooth roots that stimulate bone growth.
Gums Feel Tender
Healthy gums don’t feel tender. If yours does, you may be dealing with undiagnosed gum disease. It all starts when plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line and around the base of your teeth. If left untreated, this could lead to inflammation that causes discomfort when chewing or brushing. However, if gum tenderness and swelling are localized in a specific area, you might have a gum abscess that requires prompt dental attention.
Swollen Gums
Gum swelling with occasional bleeding is a sign of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Swollen and bleeding gums result from bacteria and plaque buildup that irritate the gum tissue. Luckily, proper oral care and regular dental cleanings can reverse this condition.
Bleeding Gums
You may have gingivitis if your gums bleed whenever you brush your teeth. This symptom usually results from plaque accumulating in the formed pockets between the teeth and gums.
Tooth Sensitivity
Do you experience tooth pain or discomfort when you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet, or salty? While a cavity, cracked tooth, or worn filling may cause tooth sensitivity, it can also be a symptom of gum disease. When gingivitis causes gum swelling, the gum tissue becomes sensitive to pressure and temperature. Moreover, teeth become sensitive to the slightest touch when gum disease causes gum recession and leaves the tooth roots exposed.
Do You Need to See a Shingle Springs Family Dentist?
Prevention is always the key to a healthy mouth. Regular brushing, flossing, dental visits, and cleanings allow you to enjoy a lifetime of healthy and beautiful smiles.
At Forest Ridge Dental Group, we’ve been helping gum disease patients for over a decade. If you’re ready to experience high-quality dentistry, contact us today to make an appointment.
