Don't Ignore These Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is far more common than you might think. Be able to recognize the warning signs.

Everything from plaque buildup to hormonal changes can increase our risk for gum disease. Unfortunately, this disease is more common than our Port Orange, FL, dentist, Dr. Jeff Kim, would like. Not only does gum disease affect nearly half of American adults, it is also the leading cause of tooth loss today. This is why maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist every six months is absolutely crucial.

Gum Disease Symptoms

Gum disease has several stages. The very first stage, also known as gingivitis, can be reversed with the proper care. Unfortunately, gingivitis doesn’t usually cause symptoms. So how are you even supposed to know that you have gingivitis in the first place? By visiting our Port Orange, FL, dentist every six months, we can spot changes in your gums that you may not even notice.

If gingivitis isn’t detected and treated, it can progress into full-blown periodontitis or periodontal disease. At this point, you may begin noticing these top three symptoms,

Bleeding gums

This is typically the first sign of a problem. If you just started flossing again after some time away, it’s fairly normal to notice tender or bleeding gums; however, this should go away within a couple of days. If you continue to notice blood in the sink when you brush or floss, it’s time to see your dentist.

Tender, Red Gums

Healthy gums are pink and firm, so if you suddenly notice that your gums are puffy and red, this is another sign of gum disease. It’s important to improve your at-home oral care routine to prevent the problem from getting worse. This means taking a little extra time out to properly and thoroughly brush and floss. If you don’t notice your gums returning to normal within a couple of days, it’s worth scheduling an appointment.

Receding Gums

As inflammation gets worse and pockets of infection begin to form between the teeth and gums, the gums will start to recede or shrink. You may not notice this at first; however, if your teeth suddenly appear longer than usual or you suddenly develop tooth sensitivity, then receding gums could be to blame.

Prioritize Your Oral Health

Any signs of gum disease, no matter how minor, should be checked out by a medical professional. Call your dentist, Dr. Jeff Kim of Ultimate Dental Studio in Port Orange, FL, at (386) 322-4867 to let us know what’s going on.