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The 5 Most Common Signs of Gum Disease

The 5 Most Common Signs of Gum Disease
Posted on 02/21/2019
Gum Disease
Are you at risk for gum disease? Make sure you know the signs so you can start giving your gums the care they truly need.

Keyword(s): gum disease

A recent report from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that almost half of all people aged 30 or older have some form of periodontal disease.

Despite the prevalence of gum disease, it can prove to be quite the problem.

When left unattended, gum disease can result in discomfort, pain. 90% of those with gum disease are at risk of diabetes, as well.

Don't wait until it's too late. Be vigilant about your oral health and look for these five signs of gum disease.

1. Inflamed Gums

Inflamed gums, also known as gingivitis, is the earliest of the signs of poor oral health.

This symptom occurs when plaque and bacteria build up over time, infecting the gums.

Infected gums often appear white or dark pink in appearance in contrast to the normal, light pink appearance of healthy gums. In extreme cases, inflamed gums may even look crimson red.

It isn't only the appearance of inflamed gums that's cause for concern. The result can be quite painful as well as disconcerting to look out.

Gingivitis often results is pillowy, tender gums that are painful to the touch.

2. Bleeding Gums

Aside from swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating is perhaps the most common of the symptoms of gum disease. But with that said, it may be the most dangerous.

Damaged, bleeding gums leave the mouth vulnerable to harmful bacteria. This bacteria, already present in the mouth, makes its way into the gums and begins to affect dental roots.

If you've noticed excessive oral bleeding, it may still be possible to prevent further damage. Make more of an effort to brush on a regular basis and schedule a professional cleaning.

3. Bad Breath

Bad breath is so much more than a slight inconvenience. It can be a sign that harmful bacteria has become deeply rooted within the gums.

It all begins with food particles. Particles of each meal we eat stay in our mouths until we brush.

Should a person skip brushing, those particles build up and begin to erode teeth and gum alike.

The result is poor breath that doesn't go away no matter how much mouthwash a person uses.

4. Loosened Teeth

Many patients with gum disease begin to notice a difference in their teeth. Their teeth may shift, for instance, or biting into certain foods may prove painful.

Once dental erosion occurs, it's almost impossible to reverse. As a result, teeth may become looser or fall out altogether.

5. Jaw Pain

Make no mistake, gum disease affects far more than a person's teeth and gums. The damage caused by gum disease is often felt throughout the rest of the body, beginning with the jaw.

Those suffering from gum disease will often notice painful, dull sensations in the lower jaw.

Watch Out For These Common Indications of Gum Disease

While gum disease can prove to be a frightening and painful condition, it's important to note that each of these symptoms is preventable.

If you notice any of these symptoms of gum disease, don't hesitate to reach out. Get in touch with your doctor and schedule an appointment today.

Yvette Gaya Dentistry

  • Yvette Gaya Dentistry - 3321 S.W. 32nd Ave., Ocala, FL 34474 Phone: 352-622-8897 Fax: 352-622-7345

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