What are signs that you may have gum (periodontal) disease? Rock Hill Hygienist Judy Murray does a good job of laying out the warning signs in this post.
At Cranford Dental we have expertise in treating gum disease; however, we prefer to educate patients to avoid gum problems.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
The following factors will increase your risk of developing Periodontal Disease:
- Genetics – Did your parents or grandparents wear dentures? You may be at higher risk.
- Poor nutrition – Food and drink with high sugar content increase your risk for gum disease.
- Hormones – Hormonal changes can cause bleeding and puffy gums. If you are expecting you are at risk for Pregnancy Gingivitis.
- Tobacco – Tobacco in any form can lead to gum disease.
- Decay or poorly positioned teeth – Beware if you have spaces that hold food particles or bacteria.
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Healthy gums should not bleed with normal daily care.
Blood thinners and other medications and some herbal supplements (including Ginkgo Biloba) can cause bleeding that may not indicate gum problems.
If your gums are bleeding and you don’t know why, you should consider this an early warning for gum disease.
Bad Breath or Bad Taste in Mouth
Bad breath that does not go away with brushing and flossing my indicate advanced Gingivitis or Peridontal Disease.
A foul taste in your mouth is another early warning sign.
Irritated or Infected Gums
Food particles that are not removed break down and produce toxins under the gums. This will irritate the gums and cause infections.
Gums that are sore or swollen may be warning you of early gum disease.
Red or Irregular Colored Gums
Healthy gums are pink in color with firm papilla (gum in between the teeth).
Are your gums red or not uniform in color? Does the gum between the teeth have a flattened look?
Gums with a strange color can be an early indicator of Periodontal Disease.
Contact our office in Rock Hill, SC if you have any of the warning signs or if you have anxiety based on the above risk factors.
The dentists and hygienists at Cranford Dental will discuss your fears and evaluate your teeth. If you need treatment for Periodonal Disease, they will explain why, how, what, and how much before beginning treatment.
The best way to maintain healthy gums is to visit us for regular exams and cleanings. Discuss your risk factors and changes in your mouth with your hygienist or dentist. They will monitor your mouth keep your gums healthy.
Judy Murray, RDH, contributed this article. Judy’s patients appreciate her attention to detail and concern for their dental health. She educates her patients and makes sure that their teeth and gums are healthy. We are grateful to have her on our team!
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