Posted on 7/15/2024 by DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi Dental Care
Gum disease starts gradually but can lead to serious dental problems and tooth loss if it gets worse. Knowing the early signs of gum disease lets you get treatment promptly to protect your oral health.
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. If your gums look red, swollen, or sore, it signifies irritation and the beginning of gum disease called gingivitis. This is when gums bleed easily, such as when brushing or flossing. See your dentist if your gums are irritated or painful.
Gums That Bleed
Repeated bleeding from your gums when eating crunchy foods or brushing your teeth is an early warning of gum disease. The inflammation causes increased sensitivity and bleeding. Even minor irritation makes gums bleed more easily in the beginning stages of gingivitis.
Bad Breath or Bad Taste
Gum disease creates an environment for smelly bacteria to build up and thrive in your mouth. You may notice bad breath or a sour, metallic taste. This is caused by the bacteria and bleeding gums. Persistent bad breath can mean gum inflammation.
Gum Recession
As gingivitis progresses, it damages the gum tissue, causing the gums to shrink and expose more of the tooth root. Receding gums also make teeth look longer. These are signs your gums are detaching from the teeth due to inflammation.
Tooth Sensitivity
Inflamed, diseased gums no longer protect tooth roots from exposure. Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or acidic foods can mean you have receding, inflamed gums. Advanced gum disease also makes teeth loose.
Pus Around Teeth or Gums
Untreated gum infection and advanced periodontal disease cause abscesses. Pockets of pus form around teeth and under the gumline. This pus is the body reacting to severe bacterial infection in the gums and bone tissue.
Visit Your Dentist if You Notice Changes
Promptly seeing a dentist for swollen, bleeding, or painful gums can prevent more extensive gum damage and tooth loss. Addressing gum disease in its early stages leads to better outcomes.
About | Dentist Spring Hill, FL | DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi We here at O'Sullivan, DeLuca & Ressel Dental Care want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles! Click to learn more about us! DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi Dental Care - Dr. James DeLuca DMD, Dr. Nick Ressel DMD, 3429 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 34609 • (352) 666-9898 • springhilldentist.com • 1/24/2025 • Page Terms:dentist spring hill fl •
Gum disease starts gradually but can lead to serious dental problems and tooth loss if it gets worse. Knowing the early signs of gum disease lets you get treatment promptly to protect your oral health.