About half of US adults have gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is a serious condition that can affect your oral health. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
That’s why it’s important to be aware of the signs and seek treatment if you experience these symptoms. Here we explain five early signs of gum disease to look out for.
- Red, Swollen, and Bleeding Gums
The first early signs of gum disease are red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This is a sign that you’re particularly vulnerable to infection and need to take care of your oral health as soon as possible.
If left untreated, such gum problems can lead to tooth loss and create more serious issues like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. For these reasons, it’s crucial to take action immediately.
- Sores or Lumps in the Mouth
Lumps and sores in your mouth are further signs of gum issues. Sores often develop around the gums, while lumps can be found on the roof of your mouth or even your jaw. Sores and lumps can be incredibly painful and make it hard for you to eat or drink anything.
They may be caused by infection from bacteria, which can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. It’s of absolute importance that you find professional dental services and have this issue treated immediately.
- Loose Teeth that Shift When You Bite Down
If you experience loose teeth that shift when biting down on them, it may be an early sign of gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria in the mouth, and this bacteria accumulates near the roots of your teeth.
This can loosen, weaken and even infect your gums, leading to further problems if not treated appropriately. Locate the best dental services in your area for professional gum care and gum disease treatment.
- Chronic Bad Breath
If you’ve noticed chronic bad breath, it could be due to the buildup of bacteria in your mouth. This can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Bad breath is another early sign of gum disease. It’s often because small pieces of food are stuck between the teeth, leading to the bacteria that create an unpleasant smell.
This could also be a sign that you have plaque buildup between your teeth and gums. This can lead to tooth decay if left untreated. If you notice persistent bad breath or tastes in your mouth, make sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible for cleanings and treatments.
- A Receding Gum Line
Finally, one of the early signs of gum disease is a receding gum line. As the gum line recedes, your teeth become more exposed and vulnerable to bacteria and plaque buildup.
This can cause serious damage to your teeth and may eventually lead to tooth loss. If you notice that your teeth have become longer than usual, get a checkup immediately and have your gum disease treated.
Common Early Signs of Gum Disease
If you experience any of these early signs of gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment for gum disease usually involves antibiotics, scaling, and root planing.
With early diagnosis and treatment, surgical procedures can be avoided. That said, please head over to our blog for more informative tips!