Gum disease is an issue with your gum tissue. Although a person of any age, even children, may develop this condition, gum disease most often affects adults. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that nearly half of adults aged 30 or older suffer from some form of it. Since this condition is so common, you should understand the symptoms so you get treatment early.
Foul Breath
One sign of gum disease is recurring bad breath. This problem arises because of the bacteria that cause gum disease. The bacteria consume certain food that you eat. Once they do, they produce a waste that’s a volatile sulfur compound and has a pungent odor.
Swollen, Red Gums
When your gums are healthy, they appear pink in color. If you have gum disease, however, the gum tissue may irritate the gum tissue and cause it to become red and swollen.
Bloody Gums
Once the bacteria invade your gum tissue, they irritate your gums and make them more sensitive. In addition, you may notice your gums bleed whenever your brush or floss them.
Tender Gums
Since your gum tissue becomes irritated, it might also become tender to the touch and more sensitive. You might even notice that your gums hurt when they come in contact with your toothbrush or other items.
Long Teeth
As a result of the gum recession, your teeth may appear longer than usual. This issue tends to occur gradually over time since the gum recession occurs slowly.
Sensitive Teeth
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums. You might also experience issues with your teeth, such as tooth sensitivity. In particular, your teeth may become sensitive to hot and cold. Generally, the sensitivity occurs because your gums recede and expose the dentin of your tooth.
Receding Gums
Your gums may recede if you have gum disease. In other words, your gum tissue might start to separate from your teeth or will wear away. The gum recession causes gaps in between your teeth and gums. Keep in mind that the gum recession can advance until it exposes the root of your tooth, which can worsen your gum disease-related tooth sensitivity.
Loose Teeth
As your gum disease worsens, the bacteria can cause the tissue and bone that support your teeth to break down. Once these structures lose their integrity, your teeth may loosen.
Missing Teeth
Without treatment, gum disease progresses. While the disease worsens, it continuously damages your gum and jaw tissue. As it does, your tissue and jaw bone can’t secure your teeth in your jaw properly.
Misaligned Teeth
Due to the gum and jaw deterioration, your teeth may also shift from their natural position and cause misalignment. Additionally, you may notice that your teeth no longer fit together as they once did.
Noticeable Tartar Formation
Typically, plaque is invisible, but you may see or feel it along your gumline. This film on your teeth consists of the bacteria that cause gum disease. When the film remains on your teeth for long enough, this substance may harden on your teeth and form tartar. Usually, you can notice this substance on your teeth.
Ultimately, if you have noticeable tartar on your teeth, usually around your gumline, along with other symptoms of gum disease, you may suffer from this condition.
Your gums and teeth may reveal that you have gum disease. Fortunately, if you visit a dentist soon enough for treatment, you may prevent serious complications.
Contact Dr. Jerry F. Maymi & Associates, serving South Jordan, UT, and the surrounding region, for an appointment if you have signs of gum disease.