How to Spot Signs of Gum Disease?

Did you know that gum disease affects more than half of the adult population in the US? The progressive condition continues to be the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At Indigo Dentistry, we emphasize the prevention, early detection, and treatment of gum disease to help our valued patients maintain healthy smiles for life!

What Is Gum Disease and How Can You Spot It?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place. You may not notice it when it is still developing, but if left unchecked, it can cause some serious dental problems, including loose teeth and tooth loss. The harmful periodontal disease-causing bacteria can also enter the bloodstream, leading to serious health conditions, like heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Signs of gum disease may include the following:

Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. If you notice your gums looking redder than usual, feeling puffy, or if they hurt when you touch them, these could be early signs of gum disease, a condition known as gingivitis. It develops as a result of the body’s immune system’s response to plaque and tartar deposits at and below the gum line.

Bleeding Gums: If your gums easily bleed while brushing or flossing, it is a sign that they are not in their best condition. While mild bleeding after a rigorous flossing session may not be alarming, regular bleeding is a warning sign that you may be developing gum inflammation or infection.

Persistent Bad Breath: Occasional bad breath is normal. But if you have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth regardless of how often you brush your teeth or use mouthwash, gum disease might be the reason. That is because the gum disease-causing bacteria can also produce toxins that lead to unpleasant odors or tastes.

Receding Gums: Your teeth might appear longer, not because they’re growing, but because your gums are receding. This means the gum tissues are pulling back, exposing more of your tooth roots. Gum recession can form pockets between the teeth and gums, where food can get trapped, providing harmful bacteria the perfect environment to flourish.

Loose or Shifting Teeth: As periodontal disease advances, the bone and tissues supporting the tooth structure can begin to erode, causing shifting or loose teeth. If you notice that your bite feels different or if your teeth don’t seem to fit together the way they used to, make sure to contact us to schedule a consultation. 

Pus Between Your Teeth and Gums: If you see pus, a thick, yellowish fluid, between your teeth and gums or feel it when you press on your gums, it’s a clear sign that there’s an infection. That, combined with any of the other symptoms, may indicate gum disease.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated? 

If you show signs of gum disease, Dr. Collier may recommend a deep dental cleaning known as scaling and root planing. The non-surgical gum disease treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from your tooth surfaces and below the gum line and cleaning your tooth root surfaces. That helps promote healing and gum tissue reattachment to the healthy tooth root surfaces. 

After treating periodontal disease, it’s important to visit Indigo Dentistry every three months for periodontal maintenance. Your appointment will include a professional cleaning and a thorough evaluation of your gum health to ensure the condition is not progressing. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. Our goal is to keep your gums as healthy as possible. 

Gum Disease Treatment Near Me in Cedar Hill, TX

If your gums are bleeding or painful and you suspect that you may need periodontal therapy, we recommend contacting Indigo Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Collier and her team are committed to helping prevent the impacts of gum disease on your oral and overall health. We invite you to call us at (972) 779-0300 to schedule your consultation or request an appointment online today!