Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults — and most people don't know they have it. Here are the five warning signs to watch for, and what to do if you notice them.
1. Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums do not bleed when you brush or floss. If your gums bleed regularly, it is a sign of inflammation caused by bacterial buildup — the hallmark of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
Many people dismiss bleeding gums as a sign that they're brushing too hard. In most cases, the opposite is true: bleeding gums need more thorough cleaning, not less. If your gums bleed consistently, call Accent Family Dentistry for an evaluation.
2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gum tissue is firm, pale pink, and fits snugly around your teeth. Gums that are red, puffy, or tender to the touch are inflamed — a sign that your immune system is fighting a bacterial infection.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that doesn't resolve with brushing and mouthwash is often caused by the bacteria that live in infected gum pockets. These bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds that create a persistent unpleasant odor.
4. Receding Gums
If your teeth appear longer than they used to, or if you can see the roots of your teeth, your gums may be receding. Gum recession can be caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, or other factors — and it exposes sensitive root surfaces to decay and sensitivity.
5. Loose Teeth or Shifting Bite
In advanced gum disease (periodontitis), the bone and tissue that support your teeth are destroyed by bacterial infection. This can cause teeth to become loose, shift position, or change the way your bite fits together. This is a serious sign that requires immediate dental attention.
If you notice any of these warning signs, call Accent Family Dentistry in Angier, NC at 919-639-3911. Early treatment of gum disease is far more effective — and far less costly — than treating advanced periodontitis.
About the Author
Dr. Brenda Gong is the founder and lead dentist at Accent Family Dentistry in Angier, NC. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based dental care to patients throughout Angier, Fuquay-Varina, Apex, Lillington, Holly Springs, and surrounding North Carolina communities.