What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a more serious form is also known as periodontitis. Without strong, healthy gums, your teeth will become loose and infections will take hold.

Since gum health is crucial to your overall oral health, it's important to recognize the symptoms of gum disease. If you're having any problems with your gums or teeth, call Malan Family Dentistry to set up an appointment today.

Top 5 Signs of Gum Disease

1. Your Gums Are Bleeding

Gums frequently bleed when you first start flossing them, especially if you haven't flossed in a long time. The bleeding should stop after a week or so of regular flossing.

If it doesn't, or if your gums are bleeding even when you're not flossing, you probably have gum disease. Your gums bleed due to constant inflammation. A sign that unwelcome bacteria is present in your mouth.

Contact a dentist immediately if your gums bleed frequently for no clear reason.

2. Your Teeth Are Sensitive to Cold and Heat

Some people have highly sensitive teeth. This can be a sign of weak enamel, but it can also signal the first signs of gum disease.

Are your teeth sensitive to temperature? This occurs when your gums begin to recede, causing them to be exposed to the air. Receding gums are usually the result of tooth decay or abrasion. If your teeth are sensitive, it's time to talk to your dentist.

3. You Have Painful Teeth and Swollen Gums

Are you experiencing sharp pain in your teeth? If your teeth constantly hurt and your gums are swollen, you probably have gum disease. If you notice pus in the spaces between your gum and teeth, you are probably suffering from advanced gum disease.

Contact your dentist before the infection spreads.

4. You Have Persistent Bad Breath

Bad breath that doesn't go away with normal brushing and flossing is another sign of gum disease. Sometimes, bad breath occurs when food stuck between your teeth starts to decompose. In other cases, an excess of bacteria feeding on your teeth can cause your breath to smell bad. If normal care doesn't help you control your bad breath, it's time to call your dentist.

5. Your Teeth Are Loose or Shifting

If your teeth are loose and you haven't experienced trauma to your jaw, that is a sign of gum disease. As gum disease becomes chronic, your bone recedes around your teeth, resulting in early tooth loss.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

The good news is that a simple, basic routine will keep your gums and teeth healthy. Follow these tips to maintain good oral health.

Brush your teeth at least twice each day.
Floss at least once a day.
Use a water pick or plastic picks to boost your flossing efforts.
Use a cavity-fighting mouthwash once a day.
Get a full dental checkup every six months.

Get Malan Family Dentistry on Your Side to Fight Gum Disease

We want to help you keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. Keeping your teeth strong will prevent having to get bridges or dentures later in life. If you have any questions about your gums or teeth, call Malan Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment today.