Did you know that more than 40% of adults in the United States currently experience gum disease. That's surprising enough, but what you may not also realize is that gum disease is caused by bacteria in your mouth. If you suffer from periodontal disease (also called gum disease), it can lead to tooth loss and other serious dental health issues.
At Mosaic Dental in Sterling, Virginia, our expert dentists provide comprehensive treatment for oral disease, so you can maintain your dental health. If you notice any of the symptoms below, it's important to come in for treatment right away.
Causes of periodontal disease
The bacteria that's always present in your mouth creates a clear, sticky substance called plaque. If you don't brush plaque off your teeth, it can build up on the surfaces and along the gum line. As it sits there, plaque can become hard and turn into tartar, which can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
At this point, the acids and toxins produced by the bacteria in your mouth can cause inflammation of the gums and a worse form of gum disease called periodontitis. Left unchecked, this inflammation can begin to erode the bones that support your teeth.
Signs of periodontal disease
Here are some of the symptoms you need to be aware of through the stages of periodontal disease so you can catch it early and seek treatment.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums are the earliest sign of gingivitis. It usually happens when you brush or floss and sometimes just from the pressure of eating hard or chewy foods. If you seek dental treatment with our team at this point, you will prevent more serious gum disease.
Red, swollen, or tender gums
If you don't get treatment and the bacteria cause an infection, your gums may become swollen and appear bright or dark red, or even slightly purplish. Your gums may feel tender, but you generally don't feel pain in the early stages of periodontal disease.
Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
The bacteria in your mouth give off bad-smelling waste products that cause you to have bad breath and can leave a bad taste in your mouth.
Receding gums
As periodontitis progresses, your gums will begin to break down and pull away from your teeth. You may not notice this separation right away, but you may see that your teeth appear to be longer as your gums recede.
Pain while chewing
If you continue to ignore the problem, the bone supporting your teeth will start to erode, and your teeth may loosen, causing their position to shift slightly. If this happens, your teeth won't fit together correctly when you bite down, and you may start to feel pain when you chew.
Don't ignore the symptoms
Here's why you should pay attention to the symptoms of periodontal disease: if you don't deal with the problem, you may lose your teeth. If you catch it early, though, our team will be able to start treatment right away.
If you have any questions about dental symptoms or you want to schedule an appointment to discuss oral disease, call Mosaic Dental, located in Sterling, Virginia, or schedule your appointment online.