5 Often Ignored Signs of Gum Disease

Over 60 million Americans suffer from some level of gum disease, and you may be one of them and not even know it! Luckily, there are some telltale signs that gum disease is beginning to take hold so that you can take action before permanent damage is done.

Here are 5 early signs of gum disease:

• Gums that are red or swollen

  If your gums look red, puffy, or feel tender, that could be a sign of gum disease setting in. The inflammation is caused by bacteria that accumulates around the teeth when it is not correctly removed by bushing, flossing, or regular dental cleanings. Left untreated, this can progress into periodontitis which is more serious and can lead to your gums receding away from your teeth.

• Bleeding while brushing or eating

  If you notice small amounts of blood when you spit after brushing your teeth or when eating certain foods, don’t disregard it as nothing. Bleeding from the gums after brushing is a big indicator of gingivitis – a mild form of gum disease. Luckily, this condition is easily reversed by brushing daily, flossing, and staying up to date on your regular dental cleanings.

• Plaque buildup

  by maintaining a daily routine of brushing and flossing and combining that with regular dental visits, you can prevent the buildup of plaque which contributes to gum disease. If plaque is not adequately removed, it can harden into tartar which can then harbor the bacteria that causes gum disease.

• Tooth sensitivity 

  Though it can simply mean you’re brushing too aggressively, having sensitive teeth is also a symptom of gum disease. As gums recede, the tooth’s root becomes exposed which in turn makes the tooth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

• Bad breath

  If you’re someone who has never suffered from chronic bad breath but you’ve noticed it has been a little on the foul side lately, it could be a sign of gum disease. This is caused by the disease-causing bacteria moving below the gum-line where toothbrushes and floss have a difficult time reaching. This is one of the many reasons regular dental cleanings are so vital to your overall oral health.

Eddie C. Orobitg, DMD brings over 20 years of experience to residents here in Leesburg. With a compassionate yet professional approach, he strives to help all patients fight and eliminate gum disease. For more information or to schedule your appointment, contact the Orobitg Dentistry at 352-702-4147 today.