Even if you take care of your teeth, dental plaque inevitably accumulates over time, especially in hard-to-reach areas that don’t get brushed as effectively. Plaque is a biofilm composed of bacteria, and as they live their lives, metabolic byproducts of their sugar digestion erodes your teeth and causes caries. But tooth damage isn’t the only risk -- you can also develop gum disease, known collectively as “periodontitis.” Usually, but not always, gum disease ultimately results from poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is probably the most common gum problem, but there are also more serious conditions that are referred to as destructive periodontal diseases. Although gingivitis can be reversed, and tends to come and go, other forms of periodontitis can cause irreversible damage. Here are some of the signs that you might be developing gum disease. It could be anything from minor gingivitis to a serious concern, and you should talk to your dentist about your treatment options. Serious gum disease is easier to treat if it’s caught early. 1) Redness or bleeding of gums. This commonly happens after brushing, or especially after flossing. It’s a sign that your gums are swollen and tender. They might also be tender and slightly painful. This is usually a sign of gingivitis, although it can also be a very early sign of more serious periodontitis. The bacteria in your dental plaque initiate your body’s host response, an immune reaction intended to keep your body safe from harmful pathogens. This inflammatory process can actually begin to destroy gingival (gum) tissues, which can trigger further gum disease progression. 2) Recurrent swelling. In addition to appearing more reddish or purple than normal, your gum can also swell up visibly and palpably. This make them painful and irritated, and brushing or flossing may be uncomfortable. 3) Persistent halitosis and a bad taste in your mouth. Gum disease can make your breath smell bad, even if you brush and use mouthwash. It can also lead you to experience a persistent metallic taste that doesn’t go away, usually because your gums are swollen and bleeding. 4) Gingival recession. Gingival recession occurs when gum disease causes you to start losing tissue. This can make your teeth appear longer. This is commonly seen in adults over 40, but it can occur as early as adolescence. When this issue is relatively mild, your dentist can help reverse the process by deep cleaning the area to remove plaque and tartar that have build up just below the gumline. In more serious cases, surgical correction may be recommended. 5) Pocket formation. “Pockets” are empty areas between the teeth and gums, which can increase tooth mobility and introduce bacteria. This space is prone to infection, and could result in an abcess that could cause a septic reaction. They form because the attachment areas between the teeth and gums have been gradually destroyed by collagenase enzymes produced by harmful bacteria. 6) Loose teeth. Ultimately, gingival recession and pocket formation can cause your teeth to loosen in their sockets. Preventing and Treating Gum Disease The symptoms above are ranked from early stage gum disease to the very final stages, when you’re at risk of losing teeth or developing an infected dental abscess. Unfortunately, because minor gingivitis with bleeding is so common, most people wait to seek dental treatment until the later stages of gum disease progression. If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your teeth and gums, you need to consult with a dentist as soon as possible. Some of the damage cannot be reversed, but by treating it early, you can stop the progression of gum disease and prevent serious health consequences that result from it.
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