Periodontal disease results from constant bacterial attacks on the gums. This damages the gums and the underlying jawbone, which are vital for supporting teeth. It is important to notice the warning signs of periodontal disease to ensure that your general dentist can take the proper steps to get the disease in order and prevent it from progressing.
The signs of periodontal disease include gum sensitivity, gum bleeding, gum swelling, gum discoloration, and gum recession. Certain symptoms can appear before others. General dentists can check for all the warning signs during general dentistry exams, which are encouraged several times a year.
Gum sensitivity is an early warning sign that one may experience once the periodontal disease begins to develop. It can make the gums feel tender to the touch, and they may become increasingly sensitive when exposed to hot or cold foods or weather conditions.
Gum swelling is an early sign of periodontal disease. It occurs when the gums are damaged and weakened by the bacteria inside the mouth. It also contributes to the tenderness and sensitivity that many people report in the early stages of periodontal disease.
Gum bleeding occurs when the gums are weakened due to a build-up of plaque and tartar along the gum line and the development of gingivitis, which is a milder form of periodontal disease. Gums should not bleed unless pressure is placed upon them. The most notable time that gum bleeding occurs as a result of periodontal disease is while the individual is brushing or flossing.
The gums should be a pinkish color. When gums are damaged by periodontal disease, they often turn a darker red color. This often goes along with other signs of periodontal disease and is something that the general dentist will check for during an exam.
Gum recession is a more severe symptom of periodontal disease and is typically the result of periodontitis (rather than gingivitis). It occurs when the gums start to pull away from the crown of teeth due to being damaged by bacterial attacks caused by plaque and tartar.
Deep gum pockets occur when the gums in between teeth (in the pockets) are damaged by periodontal disease. This can weaken the support system for teeth and put the long-term health of teeth in jeopardy.
Bone loss in the jaw requires dental X-rays to detect, and it is a common symptom of periodontitis. The jawbone, along with the gums, serves an important role in supporting teeth, so bone loss is considered a severe symptom of periodontal disease.
If you have any concerns with your periodontal health or have gone more than six months since your last general dentistry exam, call our team today to schedule a visit. We can provide a detailed examination of your gums and may order dental X-rays to determine the health of your underlying jawbone.
Request an appointment here: https://smilewellsouthbay.com or call SmileWell Family Dentistry & Periodontics at (310) 904-6375 for an appointment in our Torrance office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontal in Torrance, CA.
Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases affecting the gums and other supportive oral structures. A periodontist can help patients manage periodontal issues, ranging from mild gum inflammation to advanced cases that require surgical intervention. This dental specialty can help you maintain your oral health and prevent…
Gum care is an important component of oral care. When gum problems arise, patients can often benefit from seeing a periodontist for advanced gum care. These dental providers diagnose and treat issues with the gums, delivering targeted care to preserve oral health and prevent further complications. Understanding the role of a periodontist and recognizing when…
Dentists recommend proper oral hygiene from a young age to achieve good dental health for a lifetime. This is important for cosmetic reasons, but also to maintain overall health. One of the consequences of not brushing and flossing correctly is gum disease, which is also known as periodontal disease. This condition originally affects the gums,…
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can be incredibly concerning and lead to other, more severe oral health issues if left untreated for an extended amount of time. Consequently, it is important to fully understand the various signs and symptoms of periodontal disease in order to be able to spot periodontal disease as soon as it…
If you are new to dentistry, it may be difficult for you to decide on your options for replacing missing teeth. There are many options available, but here are some of the most common ones that can help replace missing teeth due to tooth decay:Dental implants are one of the most long-lasting options for replacing…
Invisalign® is a discreet teeth-straightening method. Research shows that many people prefer this method to traditional braces. The clear aligners offer a more comfortable way to align teeth. Knowing when to choose Invisalign can help you prepare for your upcoming appointments.The metal wires and brackets of traditional braces can cause scrapes and holes in the…