Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss if not detected early. It can wreak havoc on your oral health, thus it is essential to know and understand the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease. This enables dentists to plan an appropriate treatment plan to improve oral health.
The family dentist in Upper East Side, New York, and their team are skilled and licensed doctors to provide patient counseling about warning signs of periodontal disease. Furthermore, they offer a comprehensive approach towards periodontal disease, thereby improving your quality of life.
Introduction
Periodontal disease, or gum disease is a progressive infection and inflammation of the periodontium (gums, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone) that begins as a mild infection (gingivitis). If left untreated, the infection may spread to the underlying structures causing further damage (periodontitis), eventually leading to tooth loss.
Clues that indicate periodontal disease
Certain signs and symptoms provide significant clues that indicate the presence of periodontal disease. The symptoms are usually progressive with a typical slow onset. When evaluating your gums to check for periodontal disease, look for the following common signs:
- Swollen gums
- This is usually the first sign of gum disease.
- The bacterial infiltration makes your gums weak and vulnerable to infections.
- In addition to swelling, your gums may appear bright red in the early stages of periodontal disease.
- Bleeding gums
- Gums bleed easily when infected due to the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, and debris.
- The hardening of plaque strains the blood vessels within the gum tissues that tend to cause bleeding, especially while brushing or biting on food particles.
- Receding gums
- The toxins and acids released by the bacterial enzymes erode the enamel structure and the gum tissues.
- This leads to the pulling of the gums away from the tooth, exposing the underlying root structure.
- Gum recession makes your teeth appear longer.
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- The odor-producing bacteria that grow in your mouth react with the food particles and form sulfur compounds.
- The sulfur compounds are responsible for causing a foul smell in your mouth, leading to halitosis.
- Loose teeth
- The periodontal ligament weakens and begins to detach, and as a result, it leads to loss of teeth.
- This eventually leads to tooth loss and extensive dental procedures in the future.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, then you must seek dental help. Early diagnosis and treatment will curb the disease and prevent further damage.
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