Wondering if those puffy gums could actually mean that you have gum disease?
While gum disease can wreak serious havoc on our oral health, it’s often hard to detect during its early stages. In fact, many people have .png)
gum disease, yet don’t even know it! Although the condition can be easy to overlook, it’s still important that regularly attend your six-month dental checkups with our Mount Airy, NC, dentists, Drs. Ben and Lynette Smith, to ensure that if there is something wrong, it can be caught early!
The Stages of Gum Disease
There are several stages of gum disease. The first stage is known as gingivitis, which causes inflammation to the gum tissue due to plaque buildup between the teeth and the gums. If your Mount Airy, NC, general dentist detects gingivitis, it can often be reversed with professional dental cleanings and improved at-home dental care.
Once gum disease advances, it turns into periodontitis. While periodontitis cannot be reversed, it can be treated with a simple scaling and root planing procedure (essentially this is a very deep cleaning for your teeth, their roots, and your gums). It’s important to note that periodontitis doesn’t just impact the health of your gums, it also affects the jawbone and your teeth.
If the problem isn’t addressed this could lead to bone and tooth loss. If bone or tooth loss has already occurred, you may need to see a periodontist who can provide more advanced and specialized treatment to restore lost bone and tissue.
The Warning Signs of Gum Disease
It’s surprisingly easy to protect your gums from gum disease. By brushing and flossing regularly you can greatly reduce your risk. Of course, it’s also important that you keep an eye out for any of these warning signs of gum disease,
- Gums that bleed, especially when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums (teeth that appear longer than they normally do)
- Puffy, inflamed gums
- Gums that are tender to the touch
- Pain when chewing
- Persistent and unexplained bad breath
- Changes in bite
- Loose teeth
These are symptoms that should not go on ignored, for they will only get worse with time. Even something as simple as gums that bleed every time you floss is a warning sign that you could be dealing with gum disease!
Contact us today!
Are you concerned about the health of your gums? Dealing with any of the symptoms above? If so, call Blue Ridge Dental in Mount Airy, NC, today to schedule your next dental appointment. Our number is (336) 789-5306.