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Gum disease is one of the most common—and serious—dental issues in America. If left untreated, it can cause gum recession and even tooth loss, making it crucial to catch it in its early stages and visit a family-owned dentist in Sioux City right away.  

Thankfully, identifying the signs of gum disease is easy if you know what to look for. In this article, we’ll provide some keys to look for and prevent any unwanted downturns in your dental health.

5 Signs that Indicate You Need to See a Periodontist

1. Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are one of the main indicators of periodontal disease. If your gums bleed when you floss, it could be an indicator of early-stage gum disease. However, if bleeding occurs after brushing or eating, you may have more advanced periodontitis.

Keep in mind that if you recently started flossing regularly, your gums may bleed at the beginning as you get used to applying the right amount of force and the right technique. However, this should go away in time.

If it doesn’t, make sure to consult with your dentist.

2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

The bacteria that cause gingivitis also cause inflammation, so red, swollen gums may be a sign of gum disease. They should appear redder than pink and feel tender to the touch.

Prolonged gum inflammation can lead to the development of deep periodontal pockets surrounding teeth, which increases the risk of tooth loss. So, swollen gums shouldn’t be ignored.

3. Halitosis

Bad breath is always a sign of a potential dental disease. If you practice good oral hygiene and your chronic bad breath or halitosis does not go away, you may have a periodontal infection.

4. Teeth Sensitivity

Because of exposed roots and a receding gum line, advanced gum disease can make teeth more sensitive. Temperature sensitivity is a common indicator of many dental issues, but the pain can usually be traced to a specific tooth. But if you experience pain in, around, or beneath your gums, this might indicate a serious problem.

If you notice that your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold food or drinks, get dental care right away to treat the issue or stop its progression.

5. Gum Recession

Your gums may be receding if it appears that your teeth are longer.  

Our gums reced naturally as we age, but it shouldn’t be very noticeable. If it is, it could be a sign of advanced periodontal disease. Loss of gum tissue around the teeth is concerning because it implies the tooth’s roots are exposed and more sensible to plaque and tooth decay.

That’s why, if this is your case, seek dental care immediately.

Find a Family-Owned Dentist in Sioux City

Periodontitis, or gum disease, is one of the worst oral diseases there is. Thankfully, it can be treated easily and with a high chance of success, if it’s caught early. To ensure that your gums are healthy and prevent any unwanted outcomes, there are the signs you should be looking out for.

And if you have any doubts, a professional at Wheelock and Associates will be here to assess. Don't be afraid to reach out!

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