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Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround the teeth. It’s usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. The infection can start when plaque builds up and hardens on the teeth. This buildup is called tartar or calculus. It can damage the gums and bones supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.

Here are the symptoms that show you may have gum disease:

Bleeding Gums

Any type of gum bleeding can be a sign of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. This can be prevented by brushing and flossing every day to remove plaque buildup on the teeth.

If your gums do bleed while brushing or flossing, be sure to talk to your dentist as soon as possible. They will examine your mouth to figure out the cause of the issue.

Also, if your gums bleed frequently, it may be due to medications you’re taking or a vitamin deficiency. In this case, it’s even more important to see a dentist so they can treat the root cause of the issue.

Bad Breath

Nearly half of Americans suffer from bad breath, also called halitosis. The main cause is bacteria that accumulates in the mouth and on the tongue, and between the teeth. Another potential cause of bad breath is a dry mouth, which can be caused by medications or health conditions such as diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome. A dry mouth can also lead to gum disease, so it’s important to address both problems at once.

If you suspect your bad breath is caused by an oral health problem, schedule a consultation with your dentist right away. They will evaluate your mouth to determine the source of the problem and recommend treatment accordingly. 

Receding Gum Line

Patients may not even realize they have gum disease until the symptoms start to set in. When gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth, bacteria can enter the vulnerable area and lead to gum disease. If patients brush and floss properly and still notice pockets forming between their teeth and their gums, they may be dealing with gingivitis or an early stage of periodontal disease. Pockets are the spaces between the teeth and gums where plaque and tartar can build up to create an infection.

Loose Teeth

One of the symptoms of gum disease is loose or moving teeth. If the infection in the gums gets too severe, it can reach the roots of the teeth and cause them to loosen in their sockets. In advanced cases of periodontal disease, the gum line can even recede from the root of the tooth, and the roots can become exposed. This can cause teeth to move or even fall out entirely. Also, if a tooth becomes loose from its socket, you should seek immediate treatment to avoid further complications.

Swollen or Puffy Gums

During the earliest stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, your gums may become swollen and begin to bleed easily. Your gums may also appear redder than usual, which is a common symptom of gingivitis. You may also notice that your gums are pulling away from your teeth, creating spaces that become infected. At this stage, the disease can still be reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene habits at home.

Schedule an appointment with Premier Dental Group HI if you are looking for an emergency dentist. Contact us from your nearest location or visit our website to book an appointment.