Title: Symptoms of Gum Disease
1Symptoms of Gum Disease
2Before we discuss its symptoms, its important to
understand what we mean when we say that you or a
family member has gum disease. When you have this
dental disorder, the tissue that supports and
surrounds your teeth becomes infected.
3Left untreated, it is one of the leading causes
of tooth loss in adults. Plaque, which is a
sticky bacterium that builds up on your teeth, is
the primary cause of gum disease. Most people are
unaware that they have gum disease because its
symptoms are typically painless.
4What to Look For By knowing the symptoms of gum
disease, you can seek treatment earlier and
preserve your natural teeth. The most common
indications include Your gums bleed easily
when you brush or floss your teeth
5 If you have partial dentures, you may notice a
difference in how they fit Your gums appear
red and swollen and are tender to the touch
You notice a difference in the way your teeth
come together when biting or chewing Some or
all of your gums have pulled away from the teeth
they support Your natural teeth feel looser
6 You have a chronic bad taste in your mouth as
well as bad breath We encourage you to contact
All Star Dental for an immediate appointment if
you recognize any of these symptoms. Possible
Risk Factors for Gum Disease Several other
conditions can increase your risk for gum disease
in addition to the accumulation of plaque. These
include
7 Taking prescription medications to prevent
seizures or using oral contraceptives, steroids,
and cancer treatment drugs Pregnancy
Inattention to oral hygiene Diabetes
Genetic pre-disposition Tobacco use
Misaligned teeth that are difficult for you to
keep clean
8If you meet any of these risk factors, its even
more important to keep your teeth and gums clean
by brushing and flossing at least twice per day.
9Typical Gum Disease Treatments In most cases,
Dr. Ahmad performs root planing or a deep
cleaning to treat gum disease. For advanced gum
disease, oral surgery or tooth extraction may be
necessary. Please contact our office if youre
concerned about gum disease or have additional
questions about treatment.