Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that affects many people. At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we believe it’s essential for our patients to understand the signs and symptoms of gum disease so they can seek treatment early and prevent more serious complications.
- Bad breath or bad taste
If you’re experiencing persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, it could be a sign of gum disease. When bacteria build up in the pockets between your teeth and gums, they can release foul-smelling gases that cause halitosis. Even if you brush and floss regularly, the bacteria can still linger and cause an unpleasant odour.
If you notice that your breath is consistently bad despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it’s important to visit your dentist for a check-up.
- Tooth sensitivity or pain when chewing
If you experience pain or sensitivity when chewing or biting down, it could be a sign of gum disease. As the disease progresses, it can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing the sensitive roots. This can make eating and drinking uncomfortable, especially when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain, don’t ignore it; visit your dentist to determine the root cause and recommend the best treatment.
- Gum recession
Gum recession is another common symptom of gum disease. As the disease progresses, the gums can begin to pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots. This can make your teeth look longer than normal and can also cause sensitivity. Gum recession also causes some pockets within the gums that can harbour bacteria.
- Redness & Irritation of gums
If your gums are red, swollen, or tender to the touch, it could be a sign of gum disease. Healthy gums should be firm and pink, not red or puffy. If you notice that your gums are inflamed or bleed easily when you brush or floss, it’s important to take action. However, in some cases, brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause gum inflammation. But if you are using the right toothbrush and brushing techniques but your gums are still inflamed, you might want to visit your dentist for an examination.
- Bleeding when you brush
If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. Healthy gums should not bleed, even when you’re brushing vigorously. If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, it could be a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
Conclusion
At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we believe that prevention is the best medicine when it comes to gum disease. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and visiting our clinic regularly for check-ups and cleanings, you can keep your gums healthy and prevent more serious problems from developing.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease, don’t hesitate to contact Carrum Downs Dental Group for an appointment. Our experienced dentists are here to help you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful, healthy smile.