Gum disease is one of the most serious oral health issues and currently affects half of the American adults, as per the American Academy of Periodontology. However, few get to spot the symptoms before the condition worsens. How do you know that you could potentially have gum disease and prevent it from worsening?
Thankfully, there are certain symptoms that you could look out for. These symptoms might seem to be minor but must not be neglected and you’ll get to know why as you keep reading. Having said that, here are the most common signs that you have gum disease and why your symptoms point to it:
1. Bleeding gums
Your dentist has perhaps told you that your gums bleed since you don’t floss and it’s true. Flossing keeps your gums healthy and clean. So, do your gums bleed too easily? Sometimes you might spit and spot blood in it and then inspect only to find no evident cut where the blood might have come from.
This is a sign of gum disease. When your gums have been infected by millions of bacteria, the tissues get fed on and hence, the bleeding.
2. Red and swollen gums
Healthy gums are ideally pink and firm. If your gums are red and swollen, this is a sign of obvious infection- possibly gum disease. It’s a symptom that you must not neglect and seek professional dental care immediately.
3. Loose teeth
Your gums are meant to be firm and support your teeth to keep them in place. However, when your gums have been infected, they lose their strength and as a result, your teeth become loose. You may also think that your teeth are getting bigger. However, it’s actually your gums that are receding, revealing more of your teeth surfaces.
4. Bad breath
Do you have a bad taste in your mouth or a persisting bad breath? Bad breath comes from the metabolic processes of bacteria and since these bacteria are feasting below the gum line, brushing and flossing cannot get rid of them.
Therefore, if you have a persisting bad breath that does not seem to go away, it could be a sign of gum disease or other oral infections. Either way, it’s a symptom that must not be left untreated.
Do you have any of the listed symptoms? Do not let your condition go untreated. Get the best dentist near you in Sioux City IA for a gum disease consultation. Click here for details.
