How to Identify and Manage Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious dental disease that is responsible for most cases of tooth loss in older adults. Recognizing the early warning signs of gum disease can help you get treatment faster, which can increase the odds of successful treatment.

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

1. Red, swollen gums
Inflammation around the teeth can be one of the earliest symptoms of gum disease. Your gums become inflamed when they are irritated by the bacteria that live in plaque. They might bleed easily when you brush or floss, and may feel tender at times.

2. Chronic bad breath
Occasional bad breath is usually due to something you ate, but if you have bad breath that is constant even after you brush and floss, and in spite of your dietary habits, you might be suffering from gum disease. This type of bad breath is caused by the same bacteria that are infecting your gums. They release foul-smelling toxins, and the only way to clear up this kind of halitosis is by treating the underlying cause.

3. A receding gum line
Gums should fit tightly around your teeth. Gums that seem to be getting smaller or teeth that seem to be getting longer are also a sign of gum disease. This symptom occurs when the gums become so irritated by the bacteria that they pull away from the teeth. Because the roots of the teeth are now exposed, you might notice that your teeth are becoming more sensitive.

Gum disease cannot be treated at home and needs to be addressed by a dental professional. Once you have undergone a professional periodontal cleaning, we may recommend a specific dental hygiene routine to help reduce your risk of recurrence. We may also prescribe additional therapies to promote gum health. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.

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