Patients may assume that because they have all of their teeth and aren’t experiencing pain, that their mouth is healthy. It seems like a reasonable deduction, however, certain dental issues can progress without many noticeable symptoms.
Gum disease is a condition that is most frequently discovered once it has reached an advanced state. While this may sound alarming, the good news is that gum disease is extremely preventable with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Still, being aware of early warning signs can help you avoid significant damage to the mouth.
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it can include some of the following symptoms:
- Inflamed, sore, or red gums
- Gums that bleed during brushing and flossing
- The appearance of a receding gum line, or teeth that start to look longer and feel loose
- Chronic bad breath
- Changes in the bite
- Changes in the fit of an prosthetic appliance such as dentures
- Mouth sores or abscesses
It is important to schedule an appointment with your Redlands dentist at the first sign of any of these symptoms. At Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry, Dr. Vines will begin your evaluation with an exam to determine if you have gingivitis. Gingivitis is reversible through a thorough professional cleaning and proper oral hygiene. You may also need to increase the frequency of dental visits to monitor the mouth until health has been restored.
If gingivitis is not caught and treated, it will advance to periodontitis. At this stage, the condition becomes more difficult to treat and you may be at risk for other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or stroke.
To help avoid gingivitis and keep your mouth healthy, it is important to brush at least once in the morning and once at night and floss every evening. This removes food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums. Quitting smoking or tobacco use can also help reduce the risk of gum disease. Staying up to date on dental exams can ensure you receive your professional cleanings and that Dr. Vines is able to identify any signs of gingivitis early.
At Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry, we have comprehensive dental services that include preventative, restorative, and cosmetic care for your teeth and gums. If you live in Redlands or one of the surrounding communities and wish to schedule a consultation, please call us today.