5 Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease can rob you of your smile, as well as your overall health. If it’s not brought under control, it can result in soft tissue damage and tooth loss. At Covington Family Dentistry in Covington, Georgia, Dr. Doreen Wilson can identify and effectively treat various stages of gum disease. Uncovering the cause of your gum disease will allow Dr. Wilson to come up with a solution to eliminate the problem so your gums and other soft tissues can begin to heal. When you notice gum disease, you must call your dentist immediately.

1. Swollen and sore gums – Gums that are swollen and sore indicate some infection. The surrounding tissues may be red and have heat radiating outward from the affected area. If the gum disease is advanced, you may see clear or yellow fluid around the tooth. Call and schedule a consultation with your dentist at the first sign of tenderness. Your dentist will begin treating the problem immediately to prevent it from worsening.
   
2. Bleeding around the teeth – One of the most noticeable signs of gum disease is bleeding or finding blood on your toothbrush. You may only notice a small amount of pink on your toothbrush. As the condition worsens, the bleeding will also increase and may occur at other times. You may see more bleeding as you are eating as well. Anytime you begin to notice bleeding around your teeth, don’t delay. Call your dentist immediately.
   
3. Bad breath—Bad breath is a good indicator that something is wrong inside your mouth. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria. In many cases, bad breath is the first sign that an infection is beginning to take root somewhere in your mouth. Your dentist can thoroughly examine your teeth and gums and find where the infection is located. Finding the cause early prevents long-term complications like soft tissue damage and lost teeth.
   
4. Loose teeth – One of the biggest problems with gum disease is that when the soft tissues are damaged, they are no longer strong enough to support the teeth. Without the gums to stabilize and support them, the teeth can become loose and eventually fall out. Your gums will begin to show signs of damage before your teeth start to loosen. If you see signs of an infection, consult your dentist immediately. The quicker treatment begins, the lower your risk of tooth loss.
   
5. Recurring infections – If you begin to experience recurring infections in the soft tissues of your mouth, you may have advanced gum disease. While this can indicate other, more serious problems, gum disease or poor oral hygiene are most likely the culprits. Talk to your dentist about possible treatment options and ways you can prevent the infections from coming back. Getting back to a regular dental care routine is a good place to start.

Speak to your dentist immediately if you notice any discomfort regarding your teeth and gums. Dr. Doreen Wilson of Covington Family Dentistry in Covington, GA, can help uncover any problems you may have with gum disease or tooth decay. Call (770) 787-2230 to schedule an appointment and get to the bottom of any dental issues you may have.

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