Gum disease is serious stuff, and it’s nothing to joke about. Gum disease usually develops over time, so if you catch it early enough, you still have a chance of treating it. Gingivitis is the term used to describe the first stage of gum disease.

Even in its earliest stages, gum disease may go undiscovered by most of the population. Unfortunately, this is also the point at which the condition is most easily reversed. Gingivitis, as a medical term implies, progresses like any other infection. Gum disease may lead to tooth loss and other significant complications if left untreated. 

Identifying Gum Disease

You should seek immediate dental attention if you notice any changes in your dental health, such as discomfort, bleeding, or soreness. Though not all of these warning signs indicate gum disease, it’s crucial to pay attention. A few early indications of gum disease include the following:

1. Bleeding

Most individuals will notice this as the first indicator of gum disease. Having bloody or pink-tinged saliva coming out of your mouth when brushing or flossing might be an early sign of gum disease Bacteria-infected plaque and tartar build-up around your teeth and gums cause gum disease. When your gums are swollen and sensitive, they are more likely to bleed when irritated by floss or toothbrush bristles.

2. Pain and Sensitivity

You may have early gum disease if your gums feel extremely painful and are sensitive to heat, cold, and chewing pressure. You don’t need to worry about a bit of discomfort, but significant sensitivity that lasts more than a week or two should be taken to the dentist because of the need of periodontal treatments and prevent further complications. 

3. Recession

Because gum disease may often induce gum recession, it might make your teeth appear longer than they are. As periodontal disease progresses, periodontal “pockets” develop near your teeth. This results in pulling away of the gums from the teeth. 

In addition to giving the appearance of longer teeth, gum recession may also result in sensitive gums and teeth, as well as an increased likelihood of getting an abscess in one or more of your teeth (infection). If this condition worsens, this may lead to tooth loss. Eventually, you will need to avail of cosmetic dental services to bring your smile back. 

4. Discoloration and Inflammation

You can also see that your gums do not have their typical appearance. Healthy gums have a light pink appearance, although this color may vary for persons of certain races, who may have gums that are deeper in color. However, if you have gum disease in its early stages, your gums may become red or black. In addition to this, they may become more swollen and irritated. You may have gum disease if you see any changes in the color of your gums or if they become puffy.

Early recognition results to prompt diagnosis and treatment. If you want to receive the best dental service, like the that of Lakeside Dental Office, you can search the web for reputable dental clinics in your area. 

5. Bad breath

You may possibly have gum disease if you have persistent foul breath that simply won’t go away. The bacteria in your mouth may be causing an unpleasant odor in your breath. If bad breath is caused by gum disease, it is possible that it may not go away even if you regularly clean your teeth and use mouthwash.