If you have suffered from periodontal disease, you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control, over half of Americans over the age of 30 battle the disease at some point in their lives. [1] Caused by a build-up of plaque on your teeth, periodontal disease can cause lasting damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw. While it may be very common to develop gum disease, it is preventable and the effects can be mitigated if caught early through periodontal therapy in Webster. Learning more about risk factors and periodontal disease symptoms can help you prevent damage and preserve your dental health.
Periodontal Disease Symptoms
There are different stages of periodontal disease, and you may have different symptoms depending on the severity of the infection. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to discuss with your dentist right away. [2]
-
Red or Swollen Gums
Your gums can become red and swollen for many reasons, but gum disease is the most likely cause. Swollen and painful gums are also usually one of the early symptoms of gum disease. It is important to speak with your dentist as soon as you start noticing this to avoid any additional damage.
-
Tender and Bleeding Gums
Your gums may not always be swollen and red with gum disease. But if they bleed when you brush and floss, or if it hurts to brush and floss, that could be a sign that there is an infection developing and you should get to your dentist right away.
-
Pain While Chewing
It can be easy to ignore the feeling of pain while you’re eating. Maybe you took a bite wrong, or maybe your food was crunchier than you expected. But consistently feeling pain while you eat, especially if it makes you avoid a specific side of your mouth is a major warning sign that should not be ignored.
-
Sensitivity
Feeling pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold is another symptom of gum disease. When your gums are infected, the bacteria deteriorate your gum tissue, which can expose nerves and cause discomfort while eating and drinking. This is another concern that should be brought to the attention of your dentist as soon as possible.
-
Receding Gums
Periodontal disease can cause your gums to recede in the same way the disease causes tooth sensitivity. When your gum tissue is broken down by bacteria, you may begin to notice more of your tooth being exposed. This can cause your teeth to look uneven, or some teeth to look longer than others. The teeth are all the same length, but more of the tooth is exposed due to tissue damage.
-
Loose Teeth
Periodontal disease breaks down the tissues that support your teeth and help them to stay securely in place. If you notice that one or more of your teeth have become loose, this is likely a sign that periodontal disease is in advanced stages, and you need to visit your dentist right away.
Schedule an Appointment for Periodontal Therapy in Webster
While the idea of having periodontal disease may seem daunting, rest assured the entire staff at Empire Dental Care are here to support you. Through periodontal therapy, you can treat the infection and restore health to your teeth and gums. You will regain your happy, confident smile in no time. If you have any concerns about periodontal disease or need to make an appointment, please contact Empire Dental Care or call today at 585.671.1650.
Sources:
[1] https://www.perio.org/newsroom/periodontal-disease-fact-sheet#:~:text=The%20Prevalence%20of%20Periodontal%20Disease,equals%20approximately%2064.7%20million%20Americans.
[2] https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease/more-info#symptoms