What Are Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems, yet it is often overlooked. The first symptoms can be subtle – slight bleeding when brushing your teeth, mild swelling, or bad breath. However, if these warning signs are ignored, they can develop into more serious inflammation and, in extreme cases, lead to tooth loss. Early recognition of symptoms is therefore key to maintaining oral health and overall health.
Symptom: Bleeding gums
One of the most common and earliest symptoms of gum disease is bleeding when brushing your teeth or eating. Many people overlook it and consider it normal, but healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding usually indicates inflammation – the body's defense against bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, the inflammation can worsen and affect other structures of the tooth's supporting structure.
Symptom: Redness and swelling
Another common sign is redness and swelling of the gums. Healthy gums are pink in color and firm in consistency. When inflamed, the color changes – the gums can be bright red, sometimes even purple. The swelling is caused by increased blood flow and the body’s immune response to the presence of bacteria.
Symptom: Bad breath (halitosis)
Unpleasant breath odor that persists even after brushing your teeth or using mouthwash is a common accompanying symptom of gum disease. It is caused by the activity of bacteria that produce sulfur and other volatile compounds. Halitosis can be not only a health problem, but also a social barrier, so it is worth noting.
Symptom: Receding gums
In more advanced stages of the disease, you may notice that your gums are receding, exposing the necks of your teeth and making your teeth appear longer. This condition is often accompanied by increased sensitivity to cold or sweet foods. Receding gums can be irreversible, and without professional intervention, you risk loosening your teeth and losing them.
Symptom: Tooth mobility
One of the most serious symptoms is tooth mobility. If you feel that some of your teeth are moving or changing their position, you may have advanced periodontitis. At this stage, the bone that holds the tooth is already damaged, and treatment requires the intervention of a specialist - a periodontist.
Symptom: Pain or pressure
An unpleasant feeling of pulling, pressure, or pain when biting is less common, but it can occur. Your gums may be sensitive to the touch, and even regular brushing may become uncomfortable. Pain may indicate an abscess (a collection of pus) that needs to be addressed immediately.
What to do if you suspect gum disease?
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is a good idea to see a dentist or dental hygienist as soon as possible. Early intervention can stop or even reverse the early stages of the disease. The key is regular brushing, flossing, a healthy diet, and professional dental hygiene.
Gingivitis may start out as a mild condition, but if left untreated, it can become a serious health problem. Fortunately, it is treatable in most cases – if caught early. Call us today!