There are many warning signs of periodontal disease you should never ignore. Gum disease is usually caused by plaque or tartar accumulation in the teeth. Periodontal disease (Periodontitis) is an advanced type of gum disease, typically caused by milder gum disease, such as gingivitis when left untreated for some time. Hormonal imbalance, some drugs, and smoking can also cause periodontitis, but this is less common.
Periodontal disease is a serious disease. In the gums, it can cause abscesses, lesions, and bacterial pouches that can not be handled by home treatment. Periodontitis is one of the biggest causes of tooth loss in adults according to the Canadian Dental Association.
These warning signs of periodontal disease are also similar to the signs of gingivitis, but they dramatically increase the risk of periodontitis if untreated.
What Are The Warning Signs Of Periodontal Disease?
Any time you notice any of the warning signs of periodontal disease below, please act immediately by visiting your dentist. The earlier the better!
1. Gum Changes in Colour
The good gums on your teeth are normally pink and strong. Your gums may become red and sore because of gingivitis or other mild infections. This symptom of gum disease is to be taken serious even without tenderness, swelling, or pain.
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Gums that deepen to purple in colour may be formed by advanced gum disease like periodontitis. The gums would look shiny as well. Get professional assistance when you observe any obvious change in gum colour.
2. Gum Swelling or Recession
The gums can swell or recede because of gingivitis and periodontitis. If your gums are swollen simply by appearance, you will typically be able to tell, but during your oral hygiene routine, you might also notice it.
If your gums are swollen, the gap between your teeth will possibly feel shallower and will be more sensitive than normal. The sense that the gap between your teeth has deepened will be created by receding gums. Recession is also likely to be apparent; the roots of your teeth will begin to be seen.
Tobacco usage, lip or tongue piercings that irritate the gums, genetics, or other factors may cause both swelling and recession, but you’ll want to address this problem with a dental professional.
3. Gum Bleeding
During a regular oral exam, several individuals have gums that are sensitive enough to bleed. Periodontitis does not necessarily entail gum bleeding. And there’s no safer place for you to be than a dentist’s chair if your gums are infected.
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However, this may lead to a more serious issue if your gums bleed after daily home brushing or flossing, or if they continue bleeding for longer than normal.
4. Gum Tenderness or Pain
A symptom of periodontal disease is often discomfort or sensitivity in the gums. During your daily oral hygiene activities, this will also probably be noted.
However, if the discomfort, such as a specific tooth or your jaw, is in a locale other than your gums, the symptom of another dental problem, such as a cracked tooth, is probable. For an assessment, you may want to seek the attention of a specialist.
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5. Tooth Movement
If a hygienist has tested the bottoms of your teeth and rattled off a short set of numbers, you have tested your teeth attachment. A thin probe with measuring markers is used by dentists and hygienists to assess the degree of connection your teeth have to bone, in millimeters.
Advanced gum disease weakens this bond and can lead to tooth loss eventually. You’ll want to see a dentist if your teeth shifts through regular operations, such as biting down, brushing, or flossing.
Prevention Of Periodontal Disease
Strong oral hygiene is your greatest protection, as with almost any dental ailment. Dentists recommend these steps for periodontitis prevention:
- Brush your teeth after eating
- Floss every night
- Use antiseptic mouthwash
- Watch your sugar intake
- Eat healthy
- Visit your dentist on a regular basis
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To help you decide the best way to preserve and enhance your oral health, periodontics specialists are available. If you have any of these warning signs of periodontal disease, you can make an appointment for an examination with your local dental professional.
Don’t wait for anything to get serious! Your teeth are one of the few outfits that you wear every day. To reduce the risk of contracting periodontitis, keep your smile healthy and beautiful.