Gum disease is one of the main dental health issues that adults face, and it’s the leading cause of tooth loss when untreated. Many people don’t know the early signs of gum disease and it isn’t until they are in pain or their teeth are loose that they realize they need specialist care. When regular visits to the dentist isn’t a priority, developing gingivitis and eventually periodontal disease is at a high probability.
How Does Gum Disease Happen?
When you brush and floss your teeth, you scrub away bacteria that develops between the gum line and the teeth. With food and drinks throughout the day, bacteria builds up, and this can cause them to multiply and emit toxins. Not much happens in this early stage of gum disease, but as time moves forward, and the condition goes unchecked by a dentist, the gums will begin to recede, which leaves the tooth exposed to plaque and tartar. This then opens the space for the bacteria to move below the gum line into the root of the tooth, which is when periodontal disease is fully developed, and often leads to tooth loss.
Do I Need To See A Periodontist?
There are plenty of treatments for gum disease, but as the disease advances, the procedures are more extensive and far more costly. When you catch the disease early, it’s less expensive to treat. The best thing to do is to see an experienced periodontist like Dr. I. Stephen Brown, and let him diagnose and treat gum disease if you have it. There are a good few signs and symptoms that you can look out for if you are concerned that you have gum disease, and these are:
- You experience bleeding when brushing and flossing, even a little can be concerning
- Swollen gums are a very common sign that your gums have bacteria affecting them
- Sour and unpleasant tastes in your mouth during the day
- Bad breath caused by a bacterial buildup
- You’ve noticed some gum recession
- There are deep pockets between the gums and the teeth
- You’ve noticed loose teeth
- Your teeth are moving out of their correct alignment
- The bite pattern of your teeth has changed
- There is a pain when you eat
- You notice increased sensitivity to cold and hot
- Family history of gum disease
- You are a smoker, or you used to smoke
- You suffer from diabetes
At The Perio Group, we can offer you the best possible care to look after your gums. If you recognize any of the above signs and symptoms, then it’s time to get an evaluation with Dr. Brown. Take the time to take care of your gums so that you can keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright and happy. The kinder you are to your gums right now, the better your long term periodontal and dental health. Please contact us today.