Periodontal disease can affect more than just your smile. Gum disease, as it is also called, can result in lost teeth, pain and discomfort, and bone loss. It is important that you know the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease so you can take action. Your dentist can help you fight periodontal disease, as well as help you overcome the effects of it.
Discomfort and Pain
When you have periodontal disease, your gums will be very sensitive to the touch. It may be very difficult to brush and floss due to the pain you have from touching your gum with the toothbrush. You will also likely experience some pain while chewing. Pain while chewing can also be the result of cavities, but it is important to see your dentist so the source of your pain can be found.
Gum Appearance
The appearance of your gums is a big tip-off to periodontal disease. If your gums are red or purple, swollen, or pulling back away from your teeth, these are signs that you have periodontal disease. In the beginning, you may only notice some redness and possibly some slight swelling. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat it, so at the first sign of redness you should schedule an appointment.
Bleeding Gums
One of the sure signs of periodontal disease is bleeding gums. You may first notice blood on your toothbrush when you brush your teeth. You may also notice blood on foods that you bite into. The more frequently your gums bleed, the more serious the condition is. If your gums bleed throughout the day even when they are not touched, it is a sign that the disease is very advanced.
If you have any of these signs of periodontal disease, contact us today for an appointment.
