Gum disease can present itself in several different ways, especially at varying stages of infection or changes in an individual’s medical history. Depending on your oral hygiene habits, here are 10 common warning signs of active periodontal disease:
Healthy gums should not bleed when you clean your teeth.
Inflammation and redness are due to bacterial plaque accumulating along the gums.
Being “long in the tooth” is usually due to tissue detachment rather than age.
Periodontal disease can make it impossible to manage bad breath since the odor originates from bacteria deep under the gums.
Visible tartar buildup along the gums usually means there’s heavy buildup below them as well.
As gums recede, dark “black triangles” or spaces frequently develop between teeth.
Exposed tooth roots tend to be more sensitive to temperature changes and physical stimuli.
Teeth may feel tender when biting or chewing. If bone loss is severe, teeth may also be visibly mobile.
As teeth lose their supporting tissues, they tend to drift out of position and appear crooked or crowded.
Pus, drainage, or a foul/salty taste coming from a specific area of your mouth is usually due to some type of infection or dental abscess.
It is important to note that some people with gum disease may not experience any symptoms. For example, people who smoke may not experience any redness or bleeding, even if the infection is severe. It’s important to visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and to seek treatment if any symptoms of gum disease are present for more than a few weeks.