Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Happy Valley, OR
 Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease or periodontitis, is a serious, progressive oral health condition. It is also the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At Fusion Dental Specialists, we can treat your gum disease. We can also help you to recognize the signs and symptoms of the disease, which can help you to get treatment right away.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is caused by gingivitis. When plaque and oral bacteria build up, they irritate the gum tissue. In response, your immune system causes your gums to inflame, or swell. When swollen, your gums pull away from your teeth, and pockets form. Bacteria travel below the gum line and attack from within, weakening the periodontal ligaments that hold your teeth in place as well as your jawbone. The longer periodontal disease goes untreated, the worse the condition of your mouth becomes. Your teeth become loose and can fall out. Bacteria can also travel into your bloodstream, leading to a whole host of other serious health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
There are several signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for:
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Red, swollen, painful gums. Bacteria and plaque irritate the gum tissue, causing it to become red. The inflammatory response triggers swelling. Both irritation and inflammation can cause pain.
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Bleeding gums. When your gums become irritated and inflamed, they are more prone to bleeding. This is one of the most common symptoms of periodontal disease and can occur while brushing, flossing, or even eating.
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Your teeth look longer. This is a sign that your gums have begun to recede. This happens after the bacteria has gotten below the gum line. The tissue continues to swell and pull away from your teeth and ultimately dies.
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A change in your bite. Once the bacteria have started to affect the periodontal ligaments and your jawbone, your teeth can become loose, and shift around in your mouth. This throws off your bite.
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Bad breath. There are several causes of bad breath, but chronic bad breath can be caused by old food particles and bacteria that are trapped below the gum line.
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Pus. If you have pus oozing between your teeth, that is a clear indicator that your body is trying to fight off an infection. |
It is also possible that you may experience no signs or symptoms at all. This is one of the key reasons why regular dental cleanings and exams are so important.
Treating Periodontal Disease
Treatment of periodontal disease varies based on its severity. For less severe stages, a scaling and root planing may be enough to allow your mouth to heal. However, more advanced stages may require surgical procedures, such as pocket reduction surgery, gum grafts, or a bone graft.
Brushing and flossing are two key factors in the prevention of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Regular dental visits are also essential. With regular visits, we can monitor the health of your teeth, keep them clean, and check for signs that something is wrong. If you notice any signs or symptoms of periodontal disease, contact Fusion Dental Specialists right away at (503) 653-2299! |
