For the most part, caring for your smile is a routine deal; you brush and floss your teeth at least a couple of times a day, and you visit the dentist as often as you’re recommended to. Sometimes, however, taking good care of your smile means acting quickly when you notice signs that something is wrong. When you notice the symptoms of gum disease, quick action could mean the difference between eliminating the disease, or controlling it because it’s progressed too far to reverse it.
Warning Signs of Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Before you can know what gum disease is trying to tell you, you should understand what it is, and the signs of its development. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when the bacteria in your mouth infect the gums around your teeth. As the condition matures and progresses, the bacteria destroy your gums, eventually reaching the jawbone underneath and eroding it, as well. The first stage of gum disease—gingivitis—generates symptoms that grow worse as the infection spreads, and that include;
- Red, puffy gum tissue that may appear unusually smooth and glossy
- Bleeding gums, particularly when you brush and floss or bite and chew
- Consistently bad breath, or halitosis
- In more severe cases, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss
Taking Action to Save Your Smile
If you pay attention to your teeth and gums when you clean them every day, you’re more likely to notice the symptoms of gum disease, should they manifest. When you do, call and schedule an evaluation as soon as possible to increase your chances of reversing gingivitis. Even if gum disease becomes irreversible, you can protect your smile by controlling the infection with targeted periodontal treatment, an improved hygiene routine, and frequent professional dental care.
ABOUT YOUR FUQUAY VARINA FAMILY DENTIST:
For over 15 years, Dr. Michele Collier and the talented professionals at Waterstone Family Dentistry have provided comfortable, compassionate dental care to patients of all ages from Fuquay Varina, NC, as well as Holly Springs, Angier, Willow Springs, Raleigh, and all surrounding communities. If you’d like to learn more, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Collier by calling (919) 557-5250 today.
