Gum Disease: Signs You May Have It & What To Do

Here’s a list of signs that may point towards gum disease and how we can help treat the condition. 

Key Warning Symptoms

Before a gum infection progresses into a more serious gum disease, it is largely reversible and preventable with proper oral care. While it can be easy to disregard any symptoms that arise at this stage as nothing more than minor irritation, we urge you to pay close attention and seek dental care from our dentists.

Common warning signs of gum disease include:

• Gums that are red or swollen
• Receding gums
• Gums that bleed when brushed or flossed
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Bad breath

Comparing Gingivitis & Periodontitis

A periodontal disease of any kind is serious and knowing what stage, if any, you are dealing with is critical as it can influence the type of care required. Remember that regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams will help to prevent the onset of any type of gum infection.

The earliest stage that can be experienced is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is marked by inflamed or red gums that might bleed after brushing or flossing and can result due to plaque buildup at the gum line. Given that this is the first stage of gum disease, it is entirely treatable and can be undone. 

If left untreated or ignored, however, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a chronic and long-term condition, which ranges from minor to severe. Periodontitis can lead to destroyed gum and bone tissue, severely loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

Easy Tips for Gum Disease Prevention

Infections of the gum area, depending on the severity, can be reversible. Whether you are trying to avoid the occurrence of a periodontal disease entirely or simply manage an existing one, there is treatment that you can follow. 

• Floss each day to reduce overall plaque buildup. 
• Brush teeth regularly using a toothpaste specialized to combat gum disease.
• Use quality mouthwash after you’ve finished brushing to kill bacteria and freshen breath. 
• Visit us for a teeth cleaning every 6 months so we can monitor and manage any issues that may arise.

Maintaining gum health with an established routine every day will best serve you in the long run. If you want to prevent mouth pain or worse, tooth decay, it’s all about forming beneficial habits and keeping up with them each day. That means regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups with our dentists. Your gums (and teeth) will thank you!

Our Dentists Can Help

If there’s any indication that you may have gum disease, don’t hesitate to inform our dentists in Cadillac, MI. We’ll need to take a closer look to determine how advanced your condition is and what treatments are necessary. Call LifeSmiles Dentistry today at (231) 775-8281 to request an appointment.