Did you know that nearly half of adults who are older than 30 years have some form of gum disease? It may be more common than you originally thought, but many people sometimes dismiss the warning signs of it. The early stage of this condition is called gingivitis, and damage may be reversible the sooner it’s caught! Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms and how your dentist can help.
How Can I Tell if I Have Gingivitis?
The red flags of early gum disease may start mild, making it easy to miss. In fact, some people don’t even realize they have this condition until permanent damage has been done. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms, so you can seek care right away. Some common signs of gingivitis are:
- Discolored gums, such as a bright red or reddish-purple appearance
- Tender gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or inflamed gums
- Persistent bad breath
What If I Have Some Signs of Gingivitis?
If you notice any of these signs, it can be more than just sensitivity. While they may be mild at first, it’s your mouth’s way of calling out for your help! By calling and visiting your dentist, they can do an examination to see if you have gum disease.
What If I Have Gingivitis?
If you do have gingivitis, the good news is that any damage may be reversed! The main goal of the treatments is to handle the infection and encourage your gums to reattach to your teeth. That’s because as bacteria build up, they irritate the soft tissues and cause them to separate from your pearly whites.
A scaling and root planing is an effective way to remove plaque from these pockets. They use dental tools that effectively scrape off tartar and smooth your teeth’s roots so bacteria can’t stick to them as much. Your dentist may put a topical medication on your gums to kill off any bacteria that remain. In some cases, they may prescribe you an antibiotic in a pill form just to ensure they get as much as possible!
Gum disease doesn’t have to be something that you worry about with the help of your dentist! By going to them for help and following a proper oral care routine, you can keep your mouth happy and healthy.
About the Practice
At Goodman Dental Care, you benefit from a father-son dentist duo that’s dedicated to your oral healthcare. Drs. Gary and Jeremy Goodman want to ensure that your gums are a strong foundation for your pearly whites through preventive care and periodontal therapy if needed. We are proud to help you through your dental journey so you can feel confident that you can keep your oral health pristine. If you notice you have signs of gingivitis, schedule an appointment or call us at (410) 263-1919.