Gum disease is a serious issue that requires prompt treatment to keep your smile healthy. The best method of action is to prevent it from occurring altogether — and catching the early warning signs on time can help your dentist work with you to reverse the infection to prevent it from really taking hold. Below, find the 4 most common early warning signs for gum disease in Belmont, and what you should do next if you or someone you love are experiencing them.
#1: Bleeding Gums
The most common warning sign of gum disease is arguably bleeding gums. When periodontal (gum) tissue is infected, it becomes inflamed and is more likely to bleed when stimulated. If you are seeing red in the sink after your brush and floss your teeth or if your gums bleed throughout the day, the likelihood of having gum disease is high.
#2: Red/Swollen Gums
Healthy gums are light pink; inflamed periodontal tissue is redder and may look swollen. This side effect can begin in the earliest stages of gum disease and will continue to worsen as the disease progresses.
#3: Persistent Bad Breath/Bad Taste in Mouth
Having gum disease means you are harboring bacteria in deep pockets between your teeth and gums. That bacteria buildup leads to bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth — even soon after brushing your teeth or using mouthwash.
#4: Receding Gums
The infection caused by gum disease results in receding gums, as the bacteria slowly eats away at the periodontal tissue. If your teeth look longer than they have or if you can see a line where gum tissue used to be, that is evidence of recession that may be caused by gum disease.
What to Do Next
If you experience any of the previous warning signs of gum disease — especially if you have more than one — call and make an appointment with your periodontist right away. In the beginning stages, the infection may be cured with a couple extra dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene at home.
After the disease progresses to a certain stage, reversal is not possible, and your dentist or periodontist will work with you to manage the gum disease to prevent the most serious side effects, like tooth loss, cardiovasacular disease, or pregnancy complications, from taking hold. You can keep this from happening to you by brushing your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist at least every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
And, in the months between dental appointments, watch out for the early warning signs of gum disease to keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Meet the Periodontist
Dr. Alexander Schrott is a trusted periodontist in Belmont. With decades of experience in his field, he provides a wide range of periodontal services, from gum disease treatment to complex tooth replacement. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Schrott, contact him directly by phone at (617) 484 9240.