Gum disease is more common than you might think. In fact, it’s estimated that half of all American adults have some form of gum disease. That means approximately 64.7 million Americans are dealing with the issue. If you fear you may be one of the unlucky ones, check out the six things to look out for to determine if you might be suffering from gum disease.
- Your Gums Are Red and Swollen
- Your Gums Bleed Regularly
- You Have Ongoing Bad Breath
- You Have Regular Gum and/or Tooth Pain
- Your Gums Are Receding
- You Have Loose Teeth
In most people, one of the first signs of gum disease is red, swollen gums. This generally shows that gingivitis is present, which is the first stage of gum disease. If you notice that your gums are swollen, red, or painful, it is time to improve your oral health routine and make sure you are flossing daily and brushing at least twice per day.
One of the most common reasons that gums bleed is that you have or are at risk for gum disease. When plaque hardens to tartar, this increases the chance of bleeding gums. If not treated, that tartar can turn into gum disease. If your gums bleed regularly then you should visit your dentist and find out what you can do.
There are a number of reasons you might have bad breath, but it is often a big indication that you have gum disease. If it feels like you have a bad taste in your mouth, or someone tells you that you have bad breath, then it is time to talk to your dentist to find out if you have gum disease or another dental issue.
As gum disease progresses, you will experience more and more irritation and pain in your gums. When it has gotten to the point of periodontal disease, there are bacterial toxins and enzymes actually destroying the connective tissue and bone. When the gums start to draw back, your teeth’s roots are exposed, which often causes sensitive teeth and can increase the risk for cavities.
As bacteria spreads through your mouth, your gums will eventually start to pull back from your teeth. This is when the pocket between your teeth and your gums will get deeper, which puts gums at risk for infection. If you have noticeable receding of your gums then it is likely you have experienced gum disease for some time.
Loose teeth are a sign of very advanced gum disease. At this point, the disease has gotten to your bones and is resulting in your teeth shifting or otherwise becoming loose. The good news is that a dentist can still help you but you must make an appointment as soon as possible. To do so, contact California Dental Group at 800-407-0161.
