Don’t let gum disease go unchecked and ruin your smile!

Gum disease is a serious issue that, if left untreated, can cause major dental issues down the line. Small symptoms like swelling or redness may be easy to ignore, but they are merely the first warning signs of a far more dangerous problem. Unchecked gum disease can lead to the loosening of the teeth, chronic bleeding, and even mouth sores.

What is Gum Disease?

There are two stages of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis.  Gingivitis is relatively mild and very treatable.  Periodontitis, on the other hand, is much more intense and will require the help of a dental professional to treat.

What Symptoms Do I Need to Know About?

Symptoms of Gingivitis include, but are not limited to, swollen gums, redness in the gums, bleeding during brushing or flossing, and bad breath. Symptoms of Periodontitis include more serious issues such as tooth loosening and bone loss along with the symptoms mentioned prior. If you notice any of these symptoms occurring in your mouth you should make an appointment with your dentist right away.

What Can I Do to Stop Gum Disease?

Thankfully, there are ways of preventing and reversing gum disease at home.  Brushing after meals can really improve gum health by getting rid of plaque before it starts to build up. Flossing after every brushing will also help those gums remain plaque-free. Mouthwash can help get to those places where your toothbrush and floss cannot reach, so make sure to add that to your regimen. Finally, you should assess how much risk you are putting yourself in. Do you smoke or eat foods that may increase your risk? If you do believe you are at risk, you should mention it to your dentist so that they can help you put together a plan of defense.

When Should I Call My Dentist?

Call your dentist when your symptoms become highly uncomfortable or impact your daily life in the event that preventative measures failed. It’s highly important that you catch gum disease and reverse it before it’s too late.