Check in with your gums on a regular basis to spot signs of disease before they become serious
Gum disease is one of the top causes of tooth loss and aging grins – but many patients are underinformed of the symptoms. We tend to pay more attention to our teeth than our gums, in large part because they are far more prominent in our smiles. But without gums to support our pearly whites, we wouldn’t have any smiles to speak of.
Ellicott City periodontal treatment is comfortable, effective, and long-term. Once you have experienced periodontal disease, it’s more likely to return. We’ll help you stay on the offense to keep it from harming you any longer. If you ever have questions about whether your gums might be ailing, just get in touch.
Common Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease progresses in stages, with the first being gingivitis. During this period, your gums become inflamed, opening the way for plaque and bacteria to cause full-on infection. Since puffy gums can be subtle, it’s sometimes tough to notice that your soft tissues are in trouble. This is one reason why regular exams are so important. Schedule every 6 months so that we have a chance to keep dental problems in their infant stages.
In the meantime, be on the lookout at home for symptoms of gingivitis:
- Gums that bleed easily, when you’re eating, brushing, or flossing
- Dark red or purple gums
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Receding gums that reveal tooth roots
- Ongoing bad breath
If you notice that something about your smile is changing, it’s a great idea to schedule a checkup. This way, you can put your mind at ease, and we can take control before the problem gets any worse. Call us today, or schedule online!
