Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that attacks your gum and bone tissue. As the infection worsens, your gum tissue will recede and you will experience other signs and symptoms. It is not hard to spot the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease and they are easy to deal with when caught early.
Bacterial infections can lead to other major health problems later on in life, although this is uncommon. If left untreated, the disease can be detrimental to your overall health.
Here are the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease.
1. Bleeding Gums
The most common sign of periodontal disease is gum bleeding when you brush your teeth. Over time the bleeding will turn into more of a pink color. This is because your gums are receding and the teeth are moving. When this happens, the gums loosen and become more susceptible to bleeding.
2. Bad Breath
Periodontal disease is associated with bad breath. This is caused by oral bacteria forming sulfuri-producing compound in the mouth.
3. Tooth Loss
Periodontal disease can cause tooth loss. As the disease progresses, your gums continue to recede. Over time, they can become so weak that they will not be able to hold your teeth in place. When this happens, your teeth can become loose and fall out.
4. Pockets
The area surrounding your teeth is called the pocket. When the disease advances, pockets will form around the teeth. In some cases, the bone around teeth will begin to recede. The bone recedes because it is no longer supported, and it can eventually fall away all together.
5. Red, Puffy, or Sticky Gums
Red, puffy and or sticky gums are signs of periodontal disease. Gum inflammation and infection are accompanied by gums that turn red or begin to swell. You may also find that your gums are extra sticky or you have a bad taste in your mouth.
6. Tooth Sensitivity
Periodontal disease can cause tooth sensitivity. This is because the disease can leave the root of your tooth exposed. This can cause pain and discomfort.
7. Tooth Pain
Periodontal disease can extrude the roots of your teeth and cause you to experience tooth pain.
8. Teeth Grinding
If you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep, you are at a higher risk of experiencing periodontal disease. This is because the force made upon your teeth is detrimental to their health. Eventually, your teeth can break down and become more susceptible to the bacteria in your mouth.
9. Red, Swollen Gums
Another common sign of periodontal disease is inflammation in the gums. It can look like a red lump that protrudes. It will also appear swollen and feel spongy when you touch it. It is called a pocket because there is a space between the gums and teeth.
10. Receding Gums
As the inflammation caused by periodontal disease worsens, your gum tissue will begin to recede. The gum tissue starts to recede only about 1-2 mm initially but as the disease worsens, it will continue to recede.
11. Loose Teeth and Tooth Inclusion
You may notice your teeth getting a bit looser over time. This is a result of the bone around the teeth getting soft. The bone serves as a guide to keep the teeth in place. As it gets soft it can no longer hold the teeth tightly in place. This is when the teeth start to wiggle and fall out. A tooth can also be pushed into the gum tissue when the bone around it gets soft.
12. Pus-Like Discharge
Another sign of periodontal disease is pus coming from your gums. A white or yellow substance can build-up in your gum pockets. When your gums become inflamed, white blood cells gather in the area and work to combat the bacteria in the mouth. The white color usually indicates an infection and if left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
Conclusion
Periodontal disease is easy to notice and treat. The earlier you catch, it the better. If you have mild gum inflammation, you can usually treat it at home by cleaning your gums and brushing your teeth with a special toothbrush. If the inflammation continues to worsen, you should book an appointment with your dentist.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry offers scaling and root planing services to help fight periodontal disease. In case your gum problems have worsened and cause tooth loss, we also offer dental implants in Danvers, MA. Schedule an appointment today!