For some people, a bit of blood in the spittle while brushing is more than enough to prompt them to seek dental care. For others, it takes a bit more: regularly tender gums, swollen gums, toothaches and more. Knowing when it’s time to step up your dental care can help prevent gum disease from festering and advancing to periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease that does irreversible damage to teeth and gums.
Signs of Gum Disease
Knowing what to look for will help you better recognize when brushing and flossing at home are no longer enough to keep gum disease from overrunning your mouth.
Take a look at these common signs of gingivitis, gum disease in its early stages:
· Tender, swollen gums
· Discoloration of the gums
· A small amount of blood in the spittle when brushing or flossing
· Chronically bad breath
These are some of the common signs of periodontitis, severe gum disease that does permanent damage:
Moderate to severe swelling and tenderness of the gums
· Loose teeth
· Shifting teeth that no longer fit with opposing teeth
· Shifting teeth that shift away from neighboring teeth
· Gum recession, which makes the teeth look as if they’re getting longer
Options for Gum Disease Treatment
Knowing what to look for can help you recognize when it’s time to get professional help to rein in your gum disease. The sooner you get treatment for your gum disease, the more options you’ll have available to you.
These are some of the most effective solutions for treating gum disease:
· Deep cleaning – tartar is removed from the roots of teeth.
· Osseous surgery – more involved than a deep cleaning, tartar is removed from the roots and bone is reshaped to ensure the gums adhere to the teeth uniformly.
· Periodontal maintenance – regularly scheduled deep cleanings every few months
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