Most people know about gum disease and how it causes your gums to look swollen and bleed when you brush your teeth. They also don’t know that gum disease has serious health effects. The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis and it’s often overlooked by people. If it’s not treated early on, it will progress to a higher stage and result in serious health consequences. Next time you see bleeding gums, associate it with gum disease.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Recognizing the symptoms of gum disease is the best way to know when to seek treatment. The earlier gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat and the fewer health consequences that will occur. If you notice any of the following symptoms, please schedule an appointment at Kuhn Dental Associates in Moore County at your earliest convenience.
- Swollen, red, bleeding gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Constant metallic taste in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in tooth alignment or bite
- Sores in the mouth
Gum Disease Stages
There are four stages of gum disease.
Gingivitis – This is the early stage of gum disease, where gums often become irritated and may bleed. At this stage, we recommend improving oral hygiene habits at home, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, along with regular professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup. These steps can help prevent further progression of gum disease and promote healthier gums.
Early periodontitis – During this stage, the gum disease has progressed and requires a root scaling and planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and calculus from underneath the gum line. Once the plaque and tartar are removed and proper oral hygiene is in place, the gums will return to health.
Periodontitis – As gum disease progresses to this stage, irreversible damage to the bone begins. At this point, more aggressive treatment is necessary, and non-surgical laser gum disease therapy may be used. With restorative dentistry will use a minimally invasive approach helps treat the infection and promote healing without the need for surgery.
Advanced Periodontitis – In the last stage of gum disease, the bone is destroyed and teeth may begin to shift or loosen resulting in tooth loss or a change in bite. Extractions may become necessary in this stage.
Health Effects of Untreated Gum Disease
Without treatment, gum disease can increase the risk of several health problems including:
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Osteoporosis
Most people don’t associate gum disease with these serious health risks.
If you suspect you have gum disease or early warning signs of gum disease, it’s important to seek gum disease treatment immediately to protect your oral and overall health. Please contact our Moore County dental office at (910) 692-4450.
