Signs you may need to see your dentist for gum disease treatment

When you think about a healthy smile, bright white, cavity-free teeth probably come to mind first. But your gums play an equally important role in your oral health. Gum disease is linked to issues such as loose teeth, receding gums, tooth loss, and more serious systemic health problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and premature labor. Dr. Titania Tong in Central, Hong Kong, offers tips below on signs and symptoms of gum disease that indicate it is time to see your dentist. 

Early signs and symptoms of gum disease 

Gum disease is a progressive condition that gradually worsens into an incurable disease if it is left untreated. At its earliest stage, gum disease is called gingivitis, and the good news is that it is reversible with diligent home hygiene and professional dental cleanings. Some patients may not even know that they have gingivitis, which is why it is important to see your dentist regularly for check-ups. Others with gingivitis may notice one or more of the following symptoms: 

• Gums that are red in color instead of a healthy pink
• Swollen or puffy gums
• Pain and irritation in the gums
• Bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth
• Bad breath that isn’t helped by brushing and flossing

Signs of advanced periodontal disease 

As periodontal disease progresses, the disease-causing bacteria and their acidic byproducts begin to eat away at your gum tissues and the underlying ligaments and bone that support your teeth. Pockets of plaque and bacteria begin to form between your teeth and gums, providing a breeding ground for further bacterial infection that is impossible to reach with regular brushing and flossing alone. These processes can all contribute to more severe symptoms of gum disease, including: 

• Loose teeth
• Teeth shifting in your mouth
• Receding gums that begin to expose the sensitive tooth root
• Changes in your bite
• Tooth loss
• Deterioration of your underlying bone structure

If you have noticed any signs and symptoms of gum disease, your dentist can help you develop an oral hygiene and treatment plan to restore health to your gums and manage the disease. Call Dr. Titania Tong at 852-28101801 to schedule an appointment.