Periodontal Disease: What to Know About Symptoms and Treatment of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, more commonly referred to as gum disease, is the infection and resulting inflammation of tissue and bone surrounding and supporting the teeth. Symptoms of gum disease range in level of severity, from simple irritation to advanced disease that can result in painful damage to the gum tissue, and ultimately lead to tooth loss.
But the good news is that is that the dentists at Brightwork Family Dentistry can spot the early signs of periodontal disease. Our team can provide dental interventions that can slow – or even stop – the progression of gum disease, to ensure that you have a happy and healthy mouth for years to come.
Continue reading to learn more about identifying these symptoms and when to schedule an appointment to receive treatment for gum disease with your dentist at Brightwork Family Dentistry.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
If you are noticing early signs of periodontal disease, then plaque buildup has gone untreated for some time. The accumulation of tartar on your teeth and surrounding area can lead to infection, resulting in severe gum disease.
Even if you don’t think that you’re showing any symptoms of an advanced gum disease, it’s vital to be examined regularly by a dentist to monitor for signs of periodontal disease, as the early stages may be almost unnoticeable. Regular visits ensure that we can monitor your oral health, as the premature stages of this disease may be difficult to notice.
During a routine dental check-up or cleaning, our dentists at Brightwork Family Dentistry evaluate the current state of your gum health, looking for any existing symptoms of periodontal disease, which include:
Red, tender, or swollen gums (signs of a mild type of gum disease known as gingivitis)
Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing your teeth
Loose or missing teeth
Receding gums
Plaque/tartar buildup
Painful chewing
An unpleasant taste in your mouth resulting in bad breath (halitosis)
In advanced stages, severe gum disease may even cause painful and dangerous inflammation in other areas of your body, such as your joints
Treatment for Gum Disease
Complications from periodontal disease symptoms can significantly impact your life, ranging from mild discomfort to extreme pain in a matter of years or even months. In addition to the direct damage to your gum tissues and teeth, these symptoms can affect a person’s physical health, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. They can also become expensive if left untreated. The effects of severe gum disease can include:
Abscesses in the mouth
Misalignment of teeth
Receding gums
Exposure of the roots of your teeth
Increased risk of pregnancy complications such as low birth weight and preeclampsia
Increased risk of heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes
Treating certain types of gum disease, especially in advanced stages, may involve the removal of teeth. For earlier stages, though, treatment includes professional cleaning of the pockets around the teeth. If caught and treated early enough, gum disease can be slowed or even stopped altogether – and is much less difficult and more cost effective to treat if you catch earlier signs of periodontal disease.
Learn more about the signs and treatment for gum disease and what you can expect from receiving our periodontal services.
Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene habits will go a long way to help protect you from the significant effects caused by the symptoms of gum disease. Reach out and book an appointment with Brightwork Family Dentistry’s dentists in Richmond, VA, and take the first preventative step to maintain strong teeth and healthy gums. New patient? Read our new patient FAQ for any questions you may have, and ensure you’re prepared for your first visit with the dentists at Brightwork Family Dentistry!