Patricia
Healthy gums are important not only for your oral health. While it’s true that an unhealthy mouth can lead to an unhealthy body, an unhealthy body can lead to an unhealthy mouth as well.
It’s quite a vicious circle. We’ll break free from it once we know the signs of unhealthy gums. Many non-serious issues can also lead to unhealthy gums, so it’s key to know what you’ll be looking out for.
Let’s take a look.
1. Unexplained Tooth Sensitivity
Unexplained tooth sensitivity is a major sign of gum problems. It becomes more extensive when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or beverages. Sometimes even when breathing in cold air.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your local dentist office right away before the gum disease worsens. Unaddressed gum issues lead to costlier and more complex treatments such as root planing or gum grafting.
2. Pain
Signs of gum problems can be pain and bad breath. Gums may become tender and sore. Gums that are not healthy may also be sensitive to pressure, meaning that even brushing or flossing can be painful.
Plaque can accumulate along the gum line, causing gums to appear shiny, swollen, and red. If left untreated, plaque can harden, turning into tartar which can cause other diseases.
3. Inflammation
Signs of unhealthy gums inflammation can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include gums that are swollen. Other signs of inflammation include teething in adults, shifting or loosening teeth, receding gums, or gum tissue receding from the teeth.
A bad taste in the mouth can also be a sign of unhealthy gums. Additionally, deep pockets forming along the gum line or an accumulation of plaque may be present. Treatment usually involves a deep cleaning, antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection, and adjunctive therapies to prevent gum disease.
4. Bleeding
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing may indicate an unhealthy gum condition. Bleeding of the gums is one of the first signs of developing gingivitis and periodontal disease.
People should contact their dentist to be checked if their gums bleed on a regular basis. By visiting the dentist for checkups and cleaning twice a year, it is possible to minimize the risk of gum disease.
5. Receding Gums
Receding gums can cause teeth to appear longer than normal due to the gum line receding. Gums may also start to separate from the teeth forming pockets that bacteria can enter. Gum recession can also cause teeth to become loose.
Without proper dental care, gum disease can cause further damage to oral health and lead to tooth loss.
Act on the Early Signs of Unhealthy Gums
Unhealthy gums can be treated before they become worse. Visit your dentist twice a year for a check-up and diagnose and treat gum disease in its early stages before serious damage is done.
Don’t let unhealthy gums go untreated. Make an appointment today and keep your gums and teeth healthy.
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