How are your gums doing? It’s important to check in with them from time to time. While our teeth get much more attention because of the prominent role they play in our smiles, our gums are just as important. Moreover, healthy teeth require healthy gums for lasting support. Your smile will be less than lustrous if your gums are ailing. Catching gum disease in its early stages is key – it will prevent untold damage and the spread of infection. Read on for a guide to the early signs of gum disease, and information on how you can halt its progression.
The Beginnings of Gingivitis
While we spend a great deal of time discussing periodontal disease, gingivitis is actually the first sign of a problem. Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, occurs when plaque has begin to build at the gum line. This is commonly the result of poor brushing and flossing, but could also stem from side effects of medications or other health problems. Only your dentist will be able to tell you exactly what’s going on. But how do you know when to pay your dentist a visit?
The early signs of gingivitis include:
- Swollen gums
- Puffy gums
- Tender, painful gums
- Deeply red/purple gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
Periodontal Treatment
If you notice that your gums are in trouble early on, you may be able to reverse the problem with superb oral hygiene. By removing the extra plaque from your teeth and gums, the inflammation could fade. If things have progressed to the point of infection, we’ll need to take professional action. In-office periodontal treatment involves scaling and root planing, which will physically remove infection from the problem areas.
Once you’ve had periodontal disease, there’s a higher chance of future problems. We’ll need to monitor your mouth carefully to ensure disease does not return. Learn more by getting in touch with Summit Dental.