Keeping your smile healthy means caring for your whole mouth, not just your teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adult patients. It is crucial that you get the prompt treatment for gum disease that you need, so that you can avoid long-term oral health issues.
In order to help you get the timely treatment that you need, our Saint Louis dentists are here with some information about how your smile can change due to gum disease. When you notice any of these changes in your own smile, it’s time to reach out to your dental team for help.
One of the earliest gum disease related issues that you may notice is persistent bad breath. The oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease emit unpleasant odors when they feed on sugars, and then subsequently multiply. So, if you find it’s difficult to freshen your breath, or that your mouth feels or smells stale regularly, and not related to your diet, you may be developing gum disease.
There are also some visual clues that your oral tissues are infected. Gum disease can cause your gums to look red and swollen. Additionally, your gums may be prone to bleeding when you floss your teeth, or when you eat abrasive or crunchy foods. As your gums become healthier they should stop bleeding.
Some patients also experience increased dental sensitivity. Your gum tissue may be sensitive, or receding gums may leave parts of your dental nerves exposed, which causes tooth pain. Periodontal pockets—spaces where the gum tissue pulls away from the dental root—are clear indicators that you’re suffering from periodontal disease.
The best thing that you can do for your smile is to seek prompt and thorough treatment for gum disease as soon as you notice it. Our Saint Louis dentists are happy to give you any additional information and support that you may need. Give us a call to schedule a personal consultation!