If gum disease goes unnoticed and untreated, it can cause long-term issues not just in your mouth, but throughout the rest of your body. It’s important to understand some of the common signs and symptoms of gum disease and to know when you should see your dentist. Dr. Shirley Santos in Tustin, CA, can help explain some common signs of gum disease and how you can help prevent it.
Common Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease typically happens when the gums have had a long exposure to plaque build-up on the teeth. Plaque is formed by the bacteria from the food you eat all day can leave the gums prone to infection and disease. Gum disease can spread through the bloodstream and actually cause more intense issues that will be harder to treat. That is why it’s important to be able to identify symptoms at an early stage.
Some of the most common signs of gum disease are:
- Red and swollen gums
- Bleeding after brushing or flossing
- Gums that are separating from the teeth
- Constant, chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus between the gums and teeth
It is possible for symptoms to be really mild and to be completely unnoticed. This is another reason why visiting your dentist in Tustin, CA, regularly for checkups is an important part of an oral hygiene routine. When you visit your dentist, they will be able to keep an eye on your smile and point out any symptoms that you may have missed when caring for your teeth. The sooner that gum disease is caught, the easier it usually is to treat.
Contact Your Dentist Today!
If you’ve noticed any symptoms of gum disease in your smile, be sure to visit your dentist as soon as possible to start tackling your gum disease. Contact Dr. Santos in Tustin, CA, today at (714) 368-0222.