If Gum Disease Starts Off Painless, How Do You Know If You Have It?
Posted on 9/6/2021 by Moyer Office
Gum disease can be deceiving as it starts to attack your mouth without producing any pain. At the end of the process though, you could be left with less teeth and a myriad of health challenges. For these reasons, we need patients to be able to identify the beginning stages of gum disease, even if they do not experience discomfort.
The Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, has four stages. The first stage is called gingivitis. This stage is painless yet reversible. Gingivitis occurs as plaque builds up around the tooth. Watch for swelling and redness at the gumline. Also, if your gums bleed when you brush or floss this may be a symptom of gingivitis. Lastly, take note of your breath. If you have bad breath this could be indicative of a higher amount of bacteria, which may be present in your mouth if you do not brush well.
In the second stage of periodontal disease, the infection starts to spread to the bone. As each stage progresses the infection deepens and the disease-causing bacteria advances. At the end stages you will experience bone loss as well as swollen gums, loose teeth, painful chewing, and very bad breath. You may need surgery to clean the bacteria filled pockets around your teeth.
The Best Way to Know if You Have Gum Disease
It is important to treat gum disease at the very first stage. The best way to know if you have gum disease as by having us assess your teeth at your regular exam and cleaning. We need to see you every six months. Good daily oral hygiene habits are crucial to avoiding advance stages of gum disease. Call our office today to schedule your next appointment.
About Our Paradise Valley Dental Practice • David R. Moyer, DDS Looking for the right dentist for you? Learn more about our top-rated Paradise Valley dentist, David R. Moyer, DDS, today! David R. Moyer, DDS, 10920 N. Tatum Blvd, Suite #103 Phoenix, AZ 85208 / 480.935.6295 / moyerdds.com / 5/27/2023 / Associated Words: Dentist Paradise Valley /
Gum disease can be deceiving as it starts to attack your mouth without producing any pain. At the end of the process though, you could be left with less teeth and a myriad of health challenges. For these reasons, we need patients to be able to identify the beginning stages of gum disease, even if they do not experience discomfort.