What Are The Warning Signs Of Gum Disease?

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According to studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control, half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some stage of periodontal disease. Despite the widespread prevalence of periodontal disease, there are warning signs patients in Encinitas and San Diego, CA, can watch for, and steps that can be take to helps safeguard gum health and prevent the disease.

Common Symptoms

Patients with the disease often notice their gums appear more red than usual. Gum tissue should be pink, redness is a sign of inflammation. Soreness and bleeding when brushing and flossing are also common warning signs of inflammation. If you experience these symptoms, then see us right away for a diagnosis. If we address the problem in the gingivitis stage, we can reverse the problem. Once gum disease forms, there is no cure and we will instead need to manage the issue with regular treatment to prevent the advanced stages from developing.

Preventing Inflammation

In order to avoid the onset of periodontal disease, one needs to prevent gum inflammation. Steps to help avoid the disease include:

  • No smoking or tobacco use
  • Brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes each session
  • Flossing every night before bed
  • Having teeth cleaned every six months

Periodontal disease has also been connected to certain long-term illnesses and medications as well, so knowing your medical history is crucial for understanding the state of your smile and preventing the onset of gum problems.

The Dangers of Ignoring Symptoms

Without treatment, gum disease enters an advanced stage known as periodontitis. At this stage, the disease actually destroys the tissue connecting the teeth and gums, increasing the risk of loose teeth and adult tooth loss. If you experience changes to your gum tissue, such as pain or redness, then contact our team today. We have preventive treatments to help reduce the risk of the disease and safeguard your smile.

Do You Need Periodontal Treatment?

If you recognize the symptoms we’ve discussed in today’s blog, then please give us a call. For more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.