What are the signs of periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. However, warning signs of periodontal disease include the following:

• Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
• Loose or separating teeth pus between your gums and teeth
• Sores in your mouth
• Persistent bad breath
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures

Who gets periodontal disease?

Anyone can get periodontal disease. Although certain people may be more susceptible to getting the disease.

What do I do if I think I have gum disease?

First of all, see your dentist. He or She will be able to determine if you have gum disease. If the the dentist determines that you do have gum disease, he or she will then figure out a plan to treat the disease.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease or Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory degradation of the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated periodontal disease will ultimately lead to tooth loss. The most common form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. The most frequent signs of gingivitis are red, swollen and bleeding gums. About 80% of the population has gingivitis. Gingivitis can be reversed with treatment since there has not yet been destruction of supporting bone or tissue. If gingivitis is not treated, then it likely will progress into periodontitis. Periodontitis can be mild, moderate or advanced. Almost all periodontal disease affects adults age 35 or older, but rarely some aggressive forms can afflict juveniles and young adults. The disease is mainly caused by plaque, bacteria and possibly viruses. Fortunately, if discovered early gingivitis and periodontitis can be treated before significant bone and tissue destruction occurs, usually non-surgically. Moderate and Advanced Periodontitis is usually treated surgically which may include bone grafting or regeneration.