What are gum disease symptoms?

Washington DC Gum disease progresses in three different stages. Most people are familiar with gingivitis and know that it is a mild form of gum disease. More damaging forms of gum disease include periodontitis and advanced periodontitis which can cause permanent damage to gum tissue, the jawbone, and cause tooth loss.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

The sooner gum disease is diagnosed, the better your chances are of healing nicely and not having to endure more invasive treatment. Patient suffering from gum disease may experience symptoms such as:

• Tender, puffy, red gum tissue
• Bleeding upon brushing or flossing
• Halitosis (chronic bad breath that does not go away with oral hygiene)
• Gum recession
• Loose teeth
• Change in your bite or teeth alignment
• Dental restorations that no longer fit

Types of Gum Disease and Treatment

As mentioned above, there are three stages of gum disease. Gingivitis is usually mild and is characterized by the inflammation of gum tissue which is caused by a buildup of a sticky plaque. Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden and turn into tartar at the gumline which requires a professional cleaning to remove. When you visit your dentist for a professional cleaning, your hygienist will be able to remove any plaque and bacteria buildup to make sure everything is healthy. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

Periodontitis is where we begin to see permanent damage. Gum tissue and bone structure begin to deteriorate and you may notice some loose or shifting teeth. You may require a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, which is more invasive and allows your hygienist to reach well below the gum line to eradicate plaque and bacteria buildup in your gum pockets. During a deep cleaning, your hygienist will administer a local anesthetic to one side of your mouth before they begin cleaning. This keeps you from experiencing any discomfort. Periodontitis can progress further into advanced periodontitis.

Advanced periodontitis is the most damaging form of gum disease. Patients with advanced periodontitis may lose teeth but in order to receive an implant, you may require a bone or a gum graft to restore your mouth. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for treatment and any restorative procedures that you may need to bring your mouth to a healthy state.

It is incredibly important to maintain regular visits to your dentist to make sure that you do not backslide and that gum disease does not recur. Good oral hygiene at home is crucial to caring for your mouth and making sure that you do not develop gingivitis again. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and floss at least once. If you have trouble flossing or need help with technique, speak with your dental hygienist. They are there to help you and want to make sure you have the tools and tricks that you need to make sure you keep your mouth as healthy as possible! You may also benefit from adding an antibacterial or antimicrobial mouthwash to help kill any germs and bacteria that are messed with your toothbrush and floss.

Patients who have suffered from gum disease in the past or or at higher risk of developing a disease may be advised to have professional cleanings more often than twice a year.

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