Understanding gum disease and its contributing factors is important in appropriately managing and mitigating the chance for infection. As you know, it is important to practice good oral hygiene every day, but unfortunately, many people simply do not prioritize their oral health. If you are someone who neglects to brush and floss and eat a balanced diet, you may be more susceptible to gum disease than you think. Keep reading to learn more about gum disease and the cycle it has in your mouth.
Detect It Early
Have you ever stood close to the mirror and inspected your teeth? You’re probably more focused on the shape and colour of your teeth, but you should be looking for early signs of gum disease. It can be easy to miss these signs when you don’t brush your teeth every day, but if you are experiencing any of these symptoms before, during or after brushing, you should make an appointment with your dentist for a check-up and deep cleaning.
- Swollen or bleeding gums – the taste of blood is already very unpleasant without the added discomfort from inflamed gums. If your gums bleed during or after brushing, you may be experiencing early signs of gum disease.
- Bright red or purple colouration – inflammation and irritation in the gums will cause a brighter colour as the blood vessels in the tissue become more prominent.
- Bad breath – the accumulation of bacteria both above and under the gum line will cause bad breath.
- Gums that are painful to the touch – daily living becomes affected when your gums are painful. Eating is more difficult, and practicing oral hygiene can be extremely uncomfortable.
Early detection mitigates the risks of tooth loss, so visit your dentist regularly.
The Effects of Advanced Gum Disease.
Suppose you regularly skip your oral hygiene routine or merely rinse your mouth with water before starting your day. In that case, you may not notice the signs of early gum disease, leading to the advanced stages that significantly affect your oral health. Besides compromising the bone and tissue that support your teeth and causing tooth loss, it also impacts your confidence as you no longer feel comfortable smiling or displaying your irritated and inflamed gums. Everyday tasks such as eating and talking are suffocated under the heavy plaque and tartar on your teeth.
Invest in your oral health and visit Family Dental Care to prevent and treat gum disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.