Advanced Dentistry - Procedures

What are the Symptoms and Signs of Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition and the leading cause of tooth loss amongst adults. Periodontal disease occurs when the toxins found in plaque begin to inflame or irritate the gingiva (gum tissue). The resulting bacterial infection often known as gingivitis, can eventually lead to the destruction of the gum tissue and underlying bone. If periodontal disease is not treated, also, it can lead to loose teeth or tooth loss.

There are many common types of periodontal disease including aggressive, chronic, necrotizing periodontitis, and periodontitis associated with systemic diseases. Each of these types of periodontal disease has its own distinct characteristics and symptoms, and all require prompt treatment by a dentist to prevent subsequent bone and tissue loss.

Common Symptom and Signs

You should know that periodontal gum disease can progress without any symptoms or signs such as pain. This is why regular dental checkups are very important. Here are some of the most common symptoms and Signs of periodontitis.

If you have any of these symptoms or signs, you should look for advice from a general dentist or a periodontist as soon as possible:

Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed all the time, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
Unexplained bleeding – Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating food is one of the most common symptoms of a periodontal infection. The toxins in plaque cause a bacterial infection which makes the tissues easy to bleed.
Pain, swelling or redness – if gums are swollen, red or in pain for no apparent reason, a periodontal infection may be present . It is essential to stop the progression of the infection before the gum tissue and jaw bone have been affected. It is also very important to treat the infection before it is carried into the bloodstream to other parts of the body.
Longer-looking teeth – Periodontal disease can lead to gum recession. The toxins produced by bacteria can damage the supporting tissue and bones, consequently making the teeth look longer and the smile appear more “toothy.”
Bad breath/halitosis – Although breath odor can originate from back of the tongue, the lungs and stomach, from the food we consume, or from tobacco use, bad breath may be caused by old food particles which sit between the teeth and underneath the gumline. The deeper gum pockets are able to house more debris and bacteria, causing a foul odor.
Loose teeth/change in bite pattern – A sign of rapidly progressing periodontitis is the loosening or shifting of the teeth in the affected area. As the bone tissue gets destroyed, teeth that were once firmly attached to the jawbone become loose or may shift in position.
Pus – Pus oozing from between the teeth is a definitive sign that a periodontal infection is in progress. The pus is a result of the body trying to fight the bacterial infection.