Your gums play a vital role in maintaining a healthy smile, but periodontal disease can compromise their health without you even realizing it. At Dentistry at Bridlewood in Ocala, FL, Dr. Stephen H. Dunn and Dr. Guneshi de Mel offer premier care to help you catch periodontal disease in its earliest stages. Understanding the signs and symptoms is essential to preventing serious complications and safeguarding your oral health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. It often starts as gingivitis, a milder form of gum disease characterized by gum inflammation. If untreated, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, a more severe condition that can lead to tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.
The challenge with periodontal disease is that it’s often called a “silent” condition—its early symptoms can be subtle or easy to ignore. However, catching these signs early can make all the difference in effective treatment and long-term oral health.
Early Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Recognizing the early symptoms of periodontal disease is crucial. Here are some of the most common indicators that you should watch for:
1. Red, Swollen Gums
Healthy gums should appear pink and firm. If your gums are persistently red, swollen, or tender, it could be a sign of inflammation due to gingivitis.
2. Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing
Occasional bleeding might happen if you’re brushing too hard, but consistent bleeding is a red flag. This typically occurs when plaque or tartar buildup irritates the gumline.
3. Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, could be linked to bacteria thriving in gum pockets. Unlike temporary bad breath from foods or drinks, bad breath linked to gum disease doesn’t improve with routine brushing or mouthwash.
4. Gum Recession
If your teeth are looking longer or your gumline seems to be retreating, this could indicate receding gums, an early sign of periodontitis. Gum recession also makes teeth more sensitive to temperature changes.
5. Increased Tooth Sensitivity
Exposure of the tooth roots due to receding gums often leads to heightened sensitivity when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking help is critical. At Dentistry at Bridlewood, our experienced team can identify and address gum disease before it advances to more serious stages.
Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease
While anyone can develop gum disease, several factors increase your risk:
- Poor oral hygiene: Irregular brushing and flossing allow plaque buildup.
- Smoking and tobacco use: Tobacco compromises your gums’ ability to heal.
- Family history: Genetics can make you more susceptible.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause can influence gum health.
- Chronic illnesses: Diabetes and certain immune conditions are linked to gum disease.
Dr. Dunn and Dr. de Mel recommend routine dental checkups to monitor your risk and spot early warning signs.
Progression From Gingivitis to Periodontitis
Gingivitis starts with plaque accumulations at the gumline, causing irritation. Without treatment, this can escalate into periodontitis. At this stage, gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets where bacteria accumulate, leading to bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with timely treatment, while early intervention for periodontitis can help manage its effects.
Protect Your Smile With Expert Periodontal Care
If you’ve observed signs of gum disease, don’t wait. Contact Dentistry at Bridlewood in Ocala, FL, today. Dr. Dunn and Dr. de Mel specialize in compassionate, expert periodontal care, offering the treatment you need to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Your smile deserves nothing less.
Contact Dentistry at Bridlewood – Stephen H Dunn & Associates:
352-873-2000
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7555 SW Highway 200, Ocala FL
Ocala, Florida
34476