What are the Warning Signs of Gum Disease?

22 Aug 2023

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its widespread occurrence, many individuals remain oblivious to its presence until it has progressed to severe stages.

Recognising the warning signs of gum disease early can help prevent further damage and maintain your oral health. This blog post aims to shed light on these warning signs and guide you towards a healthier smile.

Understanding Gum Disease

Before we delve into the warning signs of gum disease, it's essential to understand what it is. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone supporting your teeth. It begins with bacterial growth in your mouth and may end -- if not properly treated -- with tooth loss due to the destruction of the tissue surrounding your teeth.

There are two stages of gum disease: gingivitis (the milder form) and periodontitis (the severe form). Gingivitis is caused by plaque build-up on your teeth, which can make your gums red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance into periodontitis, leading to spaces developing between your teeth and gums filled with bacteria, pus, and debris causing significant damage.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

1. Bleeding Gums: One of the earliest signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing. While occasional bleeding might not necessarily indicate a problem, consistent bleeding should not be ignored as it could be a sign of gingivitis.

2. Swollen or Red Gums: Healthy gums are firm and pale pink in colour. If you notice that your gums are persistently red or swollen or feel tender when touched, it could be an indication of gum disease.

3. Bad Breath or Taste in Mouth: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth even after brushing could be a sign that you're suffering from gum disease. This happens due to the bacteria and plaque present in your mouth.

4. Receding Gums: If you notice that your teeth appear longer than before or if there's a noticeable gap forming between your teeth and gums, this could indicate receding gums – another common sign of gum disease.

5. Loose Teeth: In advanced stages like periodontitis, you may experience loose or shifting teeth due to bone loss caused by chronic inflammation.

Preventing Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease starts with good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once per day to remove plaque from between your teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach effectively.

Regular dental check-ups are also crucial for early detection and treatment of gum diseases before they become severe. Your dentist will perform professional cleanings to remove tartar (hardened plaque), recommend suitable oral care products for home use and provide necessary treatments if any signs of gum disease are detected.

Conclusion

Gum disease is more common than you might think but recognising its warning signs early can save you from unnecessary discomfort and potential tooth loss down the line. Regular dental check-ups combined with good oral hygiene practices at home are key in preventing this silent enemy from wreaking havoc on your smile.

Remember - when it comes to maintaining oral health; prevention is always better than cure!