No one wants gum disease, but it can happen easier than you think. You could develop gum disease if you do not practice good dental hygiene and address unique risk factors. In addition to chronic bad breath and receding gums, you may also suffer tooth loss.
Left untreated, gum disease eventually destroys the bone that holds your teeth in place. As the bone decays, your teeth become loose and fall out. You can prevent or stop gum disease by brushing twice per day, flossing every day, and seeing your dentist regularly.
The Symptoms of Gum Disease
When your gums are healthy, they feel firm and fit snugly around your teeth. Healthy gums may range from light pink to dark pink. Some people even have brown gums. Some of the symptoms of gum disease include:
- Puffy or swollen gums.
- Your gums feel tender when you touch them.
- Dark red, bright red, or dark purple gums.
- Your toothbrush looks pink when you brush your teeth.
- Your gums bleed easily.
- You have bad breath that won’t go away.
- You spit out blood when you brush or floss your teeth.
- Your teeth are loose.
- Your teeth fall out.
- You have puss between your teeth and gums.
- You have new spaces between your teeth. In most cases, they look like black triangles.
- It is painful to chew.
- Your gums pull away from your teeth, making your teeth look longer than average.
- Your teeth don’t fit together quite right when you chew.
When You Should See a Dentist
You should see your dentist if you notice any signs of gum disease. To kick off treatment, you may need more than regular brushing and flossing. Your dentist will evaluate your gums and will make recommendations for mouth care.
Additionally, if you catch gum disease before it gets too severe, you have a better chance of reversing the damage.
Where to Find Tooth Implants in Cabot, AR
Samuel F. Jirik, DDS, Implant, Cosmetic & General Dentistry, serves Cabot and the surrounding areas in Arkansas. To find out more about tooth implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jirik and our team. To schedule an appointment, please call (501) 843-9561.