What are gum disease symptoms?
While gum disease is extremely prominent and affects more than half of adults in the United States, many people do not know they have it. Knowing the symptoms of gum disease helps ensure patients are aware of the issue and can receive prompt care. In order to prevent long-term issues and tooth loss, it is critical to address gum disease as soon as possible.
Signs & Symptoms
It is common for gum disease to be painless in the early stages, which can make it difficult to detect right away. There are several symptoms which are common with gum disease or can indicate another type of oral health issue. Patients who experience these symptoms should follow up with their dentist to determine the underlying cause. The dental professional will examine the patient’s mouth to determine if they have gum disease. They have special tools which are used to determine the severity of the issue. Below is a summary of common symptoms associated with gum disease:
- Gums which easily bleed, especially while brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Pockets between the teeth and gums
- Chronically bad breath
- Loose or wiggly teeth
- Change in the bite
- Pus around the teeth and gums
- Chewing pain
- Sensitivity, especially to hot or cold
Cause
Plaque in the mouth contains bacteria which is the cause of gum disease. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that accumulates on the teeth. It can be removed from regular brushing and flossing at home. Plaque which is not removed will harden and turn into tartar which requires a professional cleaning at the dentist for removal.
Tartar creates a rough surface which accumulates additional plaque bacteria which can cause an infection in the mouth. When it remains untreated, gum disease impacts the gum tissue and bone which holds the teeth in place. Below are the stages of gum disease:
- Gingivitis: The first and most mild form of gum disease. Gingivitis occurs due to inflammation of the gums. This is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth. When gingivitis is detected early, it is reversible. Treatment can prevent the progression of gum disease and restore the patient’s oral health.
- Periodontitis: When gingivitis remains untreated, it eventually progresses into the more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. With periodontitis, there is a more serious form of infection in the gum tissue. This causes the development of pockets between the teeth and gums in addition to infection of the bone tissue.
- Advanced Periodontitis: In advanced cases of periodontitis, the gum pockets will become so severe that the gums will detach from the teeth. This results in the teeth becoming loose and even falling out.
Prevention
The best method for preventing gum disease is through the practice of good oral hygiene. This includes at least twice daily brushing and daily flossing which effectively removes harmful bacteria and plaque. Patients should also make routine visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning.
Treatment
In cases where gum disease is caught in the early stages, it can be treated with a procedure called dental scaling and root planing. In this case, the side effects and symptoms associated with gum disease can be reversed. When gum disease progresses into more advanced stages, patients will be referred to a periodontist or dentist who specializes in gums. Treatment will vary based on the severity of the issue but will likely include a surgical procedure such as grafting.
Patients who are concerned with their gums should contact the office for an appointment. The team can review your symptoms and examine your mouth to determine if you have gum disease which requires treatment.