Periodontal Disease Signs and Symptoms

Wanting to understand more about periodontal disease? Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is something that everyone wants to avoid. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of periodontal disease.

Since periodontitis disease is directly connected to other general diseases, like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis, understanding the signs of this dental disease is necessary for one’s oral health as well as one’s good general health.

Stages of periodontal disease

Finding out more about periodontal disease helps you avoid being diagnosed. Periodontal disease occurs in stages and is more easily treated in its earliest stages. The first stage is gingivitis, which is completely reversible. The second stage is a slight periodontal disease, which is still manageable if a dentist appointment is made during this second stage. The third stage is moderate periodontal disease, which begins to affect your bone health and cannot be reversed. The fourth stage is advanced periodontal disease, which means bone loss, swollen gums, tooth sensitivity and potential chewing problems.

Periodontal disease signs and symptoms

The following is a list of signs and symptoms associated with periodontal disease.

Gums that are red, tender, swollen, bleeding or receding

When plaque and tartar are not removed from the teeth every single day, bacterial plaque begins to accumulate. This accumulation causes the gums to become infected, leading to one experiencing a variety of gum-related problems.

Loose teeth

Gum problems that are not addressed by a dental professional in a timely manner will eventually spread down under the gum line and into the roots of the teeth. This causes inflammation that negatively affects the ligaments and supporting bone around the teeth, causing the teeth to become loose.

Ongoing bad breath

The buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth is due to a buildup of bacteria. This buildup of bacteria will begin to settle along the gum line, creating pockets in between the gums and the teeth. Bacteria thrive in these pockets and accordingly will begin to emit an unpleasant odor, more commonly known as bad breath.

Preventing periodontal disease

Preventing periodontal disease requires one to create a daily oral health care routine. This routine should include brushing the teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing the teeth at least once a day. Using a fluoridated mouthwash is also beneficial. Understand the importance of regular dental appointments, as dentists can detect signs of the disease before patients can.

How is your gum health?

After reading the above information, do you think you have periodontal disease? If you have one or more of the above signs and symptoms, then making a dental appointment for a complete evaluation of your mouth is your next step. The longer you wait to address any dental issues you may currently have, the harder they will be to treat. Now is the time for you to take action to ensure both your good oral health and your good overall health.

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

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