What Does Gum Disease Look Like When it First Starts?
Gum disease happens frequently and goes through several stages. It means it takes time to develop and does not occur overnight. Poor dental hygiene is the main cause. Inconsistent and insufficient brushing and flossing results in gum diseases. If you are suffering from gum disease, read below to know the initial symptoms ad ways to stop the condition.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is sometimes referred to as an advanced gum infection. The accumulation of plaque on the teeth is typically the reason behind it. It typically results from poor oral care and weakens the tissues that support the teeth. If you discover this condition in its early stages, it becomes reversible via consistent brushing and flossing.
How Do You Notice Gum Disease?
Gingivitis, the term for the early stages of gum disease, may not exhibit any symptoms at all. Periodontitis and gingivitis are unique conditions. However, if you incorporate routine dental exams into your oral hygiene, your dentist might identify a gum infection before any symptoms appear.
At this stage, gum disease treatment may stop the condition from advancing to a more severe stage. It ultimately requires periodontal disease treatment on an immediate basis. When food particles, saliva, and bacteria combine, dental plaque is created, which adheres to the surfaces of teeth, causing gingivitis.
If the dental plaque does not eliminate by brushing with toothpaste and flossing, it can get calcified and create tartar or calculus. Only a skilled dental cleaning can eliminate tartar because it is so difficult to remove.
So, if you think you could have gum disease, keep an eye out for a few of the symptoms listed below:
Red and Swollen Gums
Gums that are in good health appear solid and red. However, when infected, the gums swell and appear red, much like any major gum infection. It should not go untreated since it may be a sign of many other serious oral problems.
Bleeding Gums
Do you ever notice blood in your saliva or gums occasionally bleeds a little from tiny scrapes on your toothbrush bristles? If yes, this could be a sign of chronic gum disease. The bacteria that have infected the gums begin to feast on the tissues around them, causing bleeding.
Persisting Bad Breath
Patients with gum disease discover that no matter how well they brush and floss, their breath, and taste are unpleasant. No amount of brushing and flossing can eliminate the bad breath, which is due to the metabolism processes of the bacterial build-up deep inside your gums.
Loose Teeth
The strength of your gums holds your teeth firmly in place. When you have gum disease, your gums begin to get weak due to bacteria and the surrounding tissues. It ultimately causes your teeth to fall out or gum to recede. Your teeth may also look big. Always remember, the gum line is retreating, which exposes more of the teeth.
Gums Change Color
Everybody has somewhat different gums. But if yours appear deeper or more vibrantly red than usual, especially along the gum line, this indicates gingivitis. The “key” is to be alert to change. Remember, you are the expert on your mouth and teeth. So, observe variations in gum color carefully, whether generally or in particular areas like the gum line.
Can You Stop Early Signs of Gum Disease?
If detected and treated in time, you can stop gum disease. Treatment is highly effective. Regular dental checkups are necessary to prevent the condition from spreading. For a successful result, you will need to change your dental hygiene practices and completely comply with the recommendations of the dentist near you.
Moreover, gum disease in smokers advances more quickly. Smokers are involved in the vast majority of cases that do not improve with treatment.
Visit Tri-Cities Dental Specialist Now for Help
Gum disease can be effectively treated early, reversing any damage it may have already done. The best method to identify gum disease early and treat it successfully is through routine dental checkups. So, call or visit our dentist in Coquitlam as soon as you notice the first signs of gum disease. He/she has immense experience in addressing gum disease of any level and will suggest an appropriate treatment.