Don't Ignore These 5 Signs of Periodontal Disease

Reflect on your most recent dental routine checkup and professional cleaning. Remember the part of the appointment where your provider calls out numbers? Those numbers correspond with the size of the pocket of tissue between your teeth and gums.

For many of us, that part of the visit comes immediately before the reminder about flossing. And for good reason, says Ginger Rome, DDS, at The Dentists at North Cypress in Houston, Texas. Your teeth rely on healthy gums to remain firmly in place and function properly.

What is gum disease?

A condition known as periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults.  An infection causes gum disease, which appears as an inflammatory issue affecting the gum tissue.

Nearly 50% of American adults suffer from some form of gum disease. The good news is that just because you experience symptoms of gum disease doesn’t make it inevitable that the condition causes tooth loss.

We categorize gum disease into three key stages. The earlier you catch it and seek treatment, the greater the chances of reversing the damage. The stages are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

Good hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly, typically sustains healthy teeth and gums. However, when plaque builds up along the gum line, the scenario is ripe for gum disease to occur. When toxins and harmful bacteria from plaque result in an infection, it triggers inflammation.

If left untreated, the condition can spiral and progress to advanced stages, causing permanent damage to your gums or even life-threatening conditions. The infection from gum disease may spread to other parts of your mouth and or your body. Severe advanced periodontitis cases increase the risk of conditions such as diabetes, stroke, or heart disease.

Symptoms start mild and progress

Be alert to the common signs of periodontal disease. Addressing the condition in the early stages is your best option for restoring your oral health.

1. Bleeding when brushing your teeth

While bleeding when brushing your teeth doesn’t always mean you have gum disease, it is one of the most common symptoms of the early stage of gingivitis. If you notice bleeding often, note it. If it happens frequently, let Dr. Rome know so she can determine what’s going on.

2. Red, inflamed, and tender gums

During the initial stage of gum disease, your gums may appear red, swollen, and feel tender. While these symptoms are uncomfortable, no permanent damage to your gum tissue has happened.

Dr. Rome can address the plaque and tartar buildup by performing periodontal treatment called scaling and root planing. During the treatment, Dr. Rome uses handheld tools to remove plaque and tartar from beneath your gums and from your teeth. She completes treatment by smoothing out your tooth roots so your gums can reattach to your teeth.

3. Frequent gum bleeding and bad breath

If left untreated, gum disease moves from gingivitis to periodontitis. During this stage, patients commonly experience persistent bad breath and frequent gum bleeding. At this juncture, patients may not be able to reverse the damage.

4. Loose teeth

As gum disease progresses, the pockets between your teeth and gums widen. You also experience a noticeable change in your bite, making it difficult to chew properly.

5. Tooth loss or extractions needed

As you enter the advanced periodontitis stage, your gums can no longer perform their important role of providing a stable foundation for your teeth. Tooth loss is common at this stage. Since gum tissue is permanently damaged, your provider may recommend extractions.

If you notice any of these symptoms of gum disease, contact Dr. Rome right away. Call The Dentists at North Cypress today at 281- 664-8100 or request an appointment online.