Gum disease is a common condition that affects many people. The condition starts with mild symptoms and in some cases, it can become severe when ignored. This blog will focus on the symptoms of gum disease, how to treat it, and how to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home. Knowing the symptoms and caring for your gums can keep your mouth healthy. Also, regular visits to a dentist can be important in the prevention and treatment of gum disease before the condition worsens.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a condition where the gums become inflamed or infected, usually due to plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky coating of a bacteria film on the surface of your teeth. When proper cleaning is not done, plaque becomes harder and turns into tartar. Tartar can irritate the gums, which in turn leads to gum disease.
Early Symptoms of Gum Disease
The earliest stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, which is common but usually mild. Symptoms of gingivitis may not be very noticeable, but here are some signs to watch for:
- Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums are pink and firm. If your gums appear red and swollen, this may be a sign of gum disease.
- Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, this is a common sign of gingivitis.
- Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by gum disease.
- Tender Gums: Inflamed gums can become sore and tender to the touch, making brushing and flossing uncomfortable.
Recognizing these signs early can help you understand
how to treat gum disease before it advances.
More Serious Symptoms of Gum Disease
If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis. At this stage, symptoms may become more serious, including:
- Receding Gums: When gums pull away from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer.
- Loose Teeth: Weakened gums and bone structure can cause teeth to become loose.
- Pus Between Gums and Teeth: This indicates an infection in the gums.
- Painful Chewing: If chewing causes discomfort, it could be due to gum disease affecting the teeth and gums.
How to Treat Gum Disease?
Luckily, gum disease can be treated or controlled, especially in its early stages. A
dentist in Cranbrook can clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Depending on the severity, the following treatments may be recommended by a professional:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure that targets the area between the gums and teeth, as well as the root surface of the teeth.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection causing gum inflammation.
- Surgical Treatments: In advanced cases, surgery may be needed to repair damage or close gaps between the gums and teeth.
Gum Disease Self-Care
You can prevent or manage gum disease at home with some simple habits:
- Brush at least Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush your teeth at least twice a day, ensure to clean the area where your gums meet your teeth, where plaque often builds up.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Use Antiseptic Mouthwash: Mouthwash helps kill bacteria that can lead to gum inflammation and swelling.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can boost your immune system, which helps your gums heal.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking harms your gums and makes it harder for them to heal.
Gum disease is a serious condition, but it can be avoided or treated if caught early. If you notice symptoms like swollen or bleeding gums, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Take Care of Your Gums, Keep Your Smile Healthy!
At Symmetry Dental, we believe that a healthy smile starts with healthy gums. Our friendly team of
dentists near you is dedicated to providing personalized care to help you maintain great oral health. Whether you need a regular check-up, cleaning, or treatment for gum disease, we are here to help.
Contact Symmetry Dental today to schedule an appointment and take the next step in protecting your gums and your smile!
