Inflamed Gums
Inflamed Gums-How to Recognize The Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and the tissues that surround the teeth and mouth. Gum disease affects over fifty percent of adults and account for about seventy percent of cases of adult tooth loss.
The First Symptoms of Gum Disease
Inflamed or sore gums and gums that bleed easily with light pressure such as gentle tooth brushing characterizes the earliest stage of gum disease known as gingivitis.
Gingivitis eventually advances to periodontitis, when the infection in the gums spread to the tissues and bones that secure the teeth.
At this stage, gums start to recede from teeth and deep spaces or pockets form around the teeth where more bacteria collect.
The common symptoms of gum disease in the first stages are:
*Red or dark red gums
*Gum swelling Sore or tender gums
*Bleeding gums
The symptoms of gum disease in more serious cases are:
*Receding gums
*Strong or persistent bad breath
*Teeth are sensitive to either hot or cold Loose or shaky teeth
*Changes in the bite or position of teeth
*Dentures and other dental appliance do not fit well
*Abscess in between gums and teeth
If you notice the slightest symptom or symptoms of gum disease, do not delay going to your dentist neither should you make any assumptions.
Only a dental professional can give you accurate diagnosis of your symptoms, whether you do have gum disease, what type of gum disease you have and what will be the best way to treat it.
To establish if you have gum disease, your dentist will examine your gums thoroughly for the following:
*Inflammation
*Bleeding
*Accumulation of tartar or calculus above and beneath the gum line
*Receding tissues
*Pockets or gaps between teeth and gums
Your dentist may require X-rays of your mouth and teeth to find out if there is bone corrosion.
Not all symptoms of gum disease are easily evident to the patient. More often than not, they barely cause any discomfort or pain making them hard to notice.
For this reason, regular dental checkups are important to spot any symptoms of gum disease.
Detection of the disease at the soonest time makes it easier to control.
Finally, make brushing and flossing a daily habit. You should brush your teeth at least twice every day and floss once a day. Nothing beats good dental hygiene in warding off symptoms of gum disease.
