Early Signs of Gum Disease

Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss? While some gum disease symptoms are easy to overlook, it’s possible to catch it early if you know what to look for.

Today we’ll list the most common signs of gum disease to watch out for. Unfortunately, you can’t reverse it on your own like you would with gingivitis. If you have an infection, periodontal disease can be treated with the help of our Mission Valley dentist.

The #1 Sign of Gum Disease: Bleeding Gums

Gingivitis is a condition that causes bleeding gums. But normally, good home care can reverse bleeding within two weeks. However, if bleeding that goes beyond that length of time, you likely have periodontal disease.

Healthy gum tissues do not bleed and heavy bleeding is a sign of a serious gum infection. Periodontal infections lurk below the gum tissue, where neither floss nor a toothbrush can reach, which is why a deep cleaning is typically prescribed.

Tartar Buildup

Tartar is a calcified, rock-like deposit of bacteria that attaches to your teeth. Tartar tends to build up along the gumlines and under the gums, on the roots of your teeth. If we see heavy tartar on your X-rays, a deep cleaning may be recommended.

Deep cleanings will target where the buildup is heaviest: under your gum tissues. Gum disease treatment (Mission Valley) typically consists of a series of deep cleanings, which are also called periodontal scaling and root planings.

Gum Recession

Diseased gum tissues will naturally pull away from your tooth roots. This can cause sensitivity and exposed root surfaces, as well as increased chances of cavities and visible gaps between your teeth. Healthy gums have a pointed papilla between each tooth. People with gum disease usually lose their papilla and have exposed root surfaces.

Swollen Gum Tissues

Gingivitis is a condition that causes swelling and inflammation around the edges of your gums. If you brush and floss your teeth daily, these symptoms will usually disappear within a couple of weeks. Gum disease can cause severe swelling that doesn’t improve, due to the infection deep under the gums. To remove the bacterial responsible for the inflammation, gum treatments are needed.

You might also notice a bad taste in your mouth around these areas, due to the necrotic tissue and infection.

Sore or Loose Teeth

Advanced gum disease can cause deterioration in the tissues that support your teeth. When you press down on those teeth as you’re biting or chewing, it can cause discomfort. They might even feel loose. If loose teeth aren’t treated quickly, they will likely fall out on their own. Unfortunately, this infection can also spread from tooth to tooth, resulting in additional issues throughout your mouth.

Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Gum disease is known for causing a strong, foul-smelling odor. This smell is caused by bacteria and dying tissues below the edges of your gum line. Brushing, mouth rinses, and even breath mints can make the odor worse in some cases. If you get a deep cleaning, we can reach below the tissues to treat bad breath odors at the source.

If it’s due to gum disease, there is no way to stop halitosis from getting worse, regardless of how many mouthwashes and breath mints you use. You’ll need the help of a dental team you trust to remove those areas of bacteria that you can’t reach with a toothbrush or floss.

You’re Behind on Dental Checkups

Gum disease is sometimes the side effect of infrequent dental checkups and cleanings. If it’s been months or years since your last dental visit—and you have any of the above-mentioned symptoms—it’s best to see our Mission Valley dentist as soon as you can.

Gum Disease Treatment (Mission Valley)

Are you suffering from gum disease? Have you noticed any symptoms of periodontal disease? Cassell Dentistry can help. Call our dentist in Mission Valley today to reserve an appointment.