Common Signs of Periodontal Disease

Research shows that at least half of Americans age 30 or older suffer from the most advanced form of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. That’s approximately 64.7 million people. Unfortunately, this progressive, inflammatory disease not only puts your teeth at risk but your overall health, too. In fact, research shows that having periodontal disease increases your chances of developing other systemic conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease.

Fortunately, learning to recognize the signs of this condition as soon as possible can help ensure you get the treatment you need to take action fast. And, just like treating other health problems, getting treatment as early as possible can help reduce your chances of developing additional complications.

The best way to diagnose gum disease or another dental condition is by scheduling an appointment with our dentists at Goodman Dental Center in Queen Creek, Arizona. And, if you have any of these symptoms, don’t put off booking a visit.

Tender, bleeding, or swollen gums

In the earliest stages of periodontal disease, you have gingivitis, which is the medical term for inflamed and swollen gums. When you have gingivitis, it’s also common for your gums to bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, and they can even feel sore or tender to the touch. 

The good news is that improving your brushing and flossing habits can often help prevent or reverse periodontal disease at this stage.

Chronic bad breath

If you have persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it could be periodontal disease. This condition develops because bacteria builds up and leads to the formation of plaque.

And while the plaque-causing bacteria itself smells bad, it doesn’t stop there. It also stimulates the formation of toxins, which activates your immune system and causes inflammation to develop. 

This process causes several outcomes, including damage to tissues in your mouth as well as gum irritation, both of which can contribute to foul-smelling breath. 

Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures

Do you wince every time you drink a hot or cold beverage? Your tooth pain could be an early symptom of periodontal disease. This occurs because the inflammation caused by the disease can damage gum tissue and bone, which can leave sensitive tooth roots exposed.

Though this tooth pain is often temporary, you should still have it assessed by your dentist if it happens with regularity. 

Loose or unstable teeth

Without treatment, gum disease can cause gaps or pockets to form around your teeth as the gum tissue pulls away. These tissue changes may not only affect your smile, but they may cause permanent teeth to become unstable. In time, you could even notice a loose tooth — or several. 

During your assessment, your dentist can check the depth of the pockets surrounding those teeth to diagnose periodontal disease. 

When periodontal disease gets caught early enough, treatment options tend to be mild. In many cases, they include:

• Better flossing and brushing techniques
• Frequent professional cleanings 
• Antibiotic injected at points of inflammation
• Scaling the teeth or root planing
• Laser removal of plaque and tartar 

However, down the line, advanced periodontal disease can cause tooth loss or require professional extraction.

Don’t wait to prevent or manage gum disease and improve your dental health. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Goodman Dental Center today.