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2417 Welsh Road Philadelphia, PA 19114

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Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a pretty common dental issue that many adults face. It can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to serious damage (periodontitis). Catching it early makes a huge difference, so it’s important to know what to look out for. Without treatments, gum disease can cause you to lose your teeth and even affect your overall health.

Without timely treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and contribute to other health issues. Recognizing the signs is crucial.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, and the symptoms can be so subtle they’re easy to miss. One of the earliest signs is gums that bleed when you brush or floss. It’s easy to brush this off, but healthy gums don’t bleed easily. If you notice blood on your toothbrush or in the sink, it’s worth paying attention.

You might also notice your gums looking red or swollen instead of their usual healthy pink. This is inflammation caused by bacteria. Another clue is bad breath that won’t go away, even after brushing. This persistent odor often points to a buildup of bacteria under the gums.

The good news is that gingivitis can usually be reversed with early care. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that’s causing the issues. Your dentist can guide you on improving your brushing and flossing habits too.

Signs of Advanced Gum Disease

Untreated gingivitis develops into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. The symptoms are harder to ignore at this stage. One common sign is receding gums, or where the gums begin to pull back from the teeth. This can make your teeth look longer and might also cause sensitivity and pain since the roots can get exposed.

Another red flag is loose teeth. Gum disease damages the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place. This causes them to shift or feel wobbly when you chew or bite. You might even notice pus between your teeth and gums from an infection that needs urgent attention. Painful chewing and sensitivity to hot or cold foods can also appear as the disease progresses.

In severe cases, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, but it doesn’t just stop there. It’s been linked to health problems like heart disease and diabetes. The inflammation from gum disease can make these conditions worse, which is why treating it is so important for your overall health.

What Can Put You at Risk for Gum Disease?

Gum disease doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s often linked to certain habits or health factors that make it more likely to develop. Let’s break down some of the most common risks and what you can do to stay ahead of them:

  • Smoking: Smoking is one of the biggest culprits. It weakens your body’s ability to fight off infections, including the bacteria that cause gum problems. Smokers are not only more likely to develop gum disease, but they may also have a tougher time with treatment.
  • Skipping Good Oral Hygiene: If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, plaque builds up. Plaque is that sticky film of bacteria you feel on your teeth. It hardens into tartar, something only your dentist can remove. Once it’s there, it creates the perfect hiding spot for bacteria to thrive and increase your risk of gum disease.
  • Health Conditions: Certain medical issues can also raise your chances of gum problems. For example, diabetes and high blood sugar levels can lead to more plaque buildup and make it harder for your gums to heal. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to disease.
  • Stress and Diet: Feeling stressed out or not eating well? Both can weaken your immune system, leaving you more open to gum infections. A diet low in essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can also take a toll on your gum health.
  • Family History: Sometimes, it’s just in your genes. If gum disease runs in your family, you might be more likely to develop it too.

What Can You Do About It?

The good news is that gum disease is preventable! Brush and floss daily, stick to a balanced diet, and make regular trips to our dentist. We can catch issues early and give your gums the extra care they need with periodontal therapy.

If you’re noticing signs like bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum sensitivity, reach out to Dr. Shulman for help. It’s always better to tackle gum disease sooner rather than later.

Our Philadelphia dental office can help you get back healthy gums. Give us a call at (215) 372-1142 or request an appointment online today.