Southern Arizona Periodontics is Tucson’s expert in identifying and treating periodontal disease, which is often called gum disease. It is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, and ranges from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms that can lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration (periodontitis).
Gum disease can be painless in early stages, which makes it easy for many people to ignore early signs of gum disease. But these are the most crucial stages for treatment because it can radically alter how easy treatment options are.
How do you know if you have early signs of gum disease? Here are some of the signs to look for:
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. One of the earliest signs of periodontal disease is inflammation, which causes gums to become red, swollen, and tender. Gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease, typically starts with inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. If your gums appear redder than usual or feel tender to the touch, it could be an early warning sign of gum disease.
Bleeding Gums, Especially When Brushing or Flossing
Bleeding gums are often an indication that your gums are inflamed. While occasional bleeding might occur due to aggressive brushing or flossing, frequent or excessive bleeding—especially during routine oral care—can be a red flag for gum disease. If your gums bleed regularly, even with gentle brushing or flossing, it’s important to consult a dentist.
Persistent Bad Breath or a Bad Taste in the Mouth
While many people experience bad breath (halitosis) after consuming certain foods, persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away, even with brushing, could be a sign of periodontal disease. As bacteria accumulate in the mouth, especially in the presence of gum disease, they release toxins that produce an unpleasant odor and taste. If bad breath or a bad taste is constant despite good oral hygiene, it may indicate an underlying infection.
Receding Gums
Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or even the root. This can make your teeth appear longer than normal. Gum recession is often a sign of more advanced periodontal disease, as the supporting tissues around the teeth begin to break down. Receding gums may also make teeth more sensitive to temperature changes or brushing.
Formation of Deep Pockets Between Teeth and Gums
As periodontal disease progresses, the gums start to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets or spaces where plaque and bacteria can accumulate. These pockets become deeper as the disease advances, leading to further bone and tissue damage. If left untreated, these pockets can become sites of infection and increase the risk of tooth loss. Your dentist can measure the depth of these pockets during a check-up to determine the severity of gum disease.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
As periodontal disease damages the underlying bone and tissue that support your teeth, teeth can become loose or shift in position. This is a sign that the disease has progressed into periodontitis, the more advanced stage of gum disease. You might notice that your bite feels different or that spaces appear between your teeth. If you experience any movement or changes in your teeth’s alignment, it’s essential to seek dental care immediately.
Pain or Discomfort in the Gums
Periodontal disease is often painless in its early stages, but as it progresses, you may experience discomfort, particularly when chewing. Pain or pressure in the gums, especially when eating, could indicate that the infection has spread deeper into the tissues. If you notice pain along with any other symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to schedule a dental appointment.
Gum Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Foods
Gum sensitivity to temperature changes is another warning sign of periodontal disease, especially when combined with other symptoms like gum recession or inflammation. As the gum tissue recedes and exposes more of the tooth’s root, the tooth becomes more sensitive to hot and cold foods or beverages. This sensitivity can signal that the protective tissues around the teeth are deteriorating due to gum disease.
Get Help Today
If you are noticing some of these signs, or you’ve have had discissions with your general dentist about the signs of gum disease, we invite you to reach out to learn about how we can help you. Call our office today and our specialists can help you get control over your oral health.
