Periodontal disease, when left untreated, can wreak absolute havoc on the state of your smile. The key to minimizing the effects of periodontal disease is to diagnose the infection early, and seek prompt and effective treatment. With this in mind, our Santa Monica dentist are reviewing some of the key symptoms of periodontal disease, so that you can stay alert for changes in your smile.
As gum disease starts to develop, it may be asymptomatic. As the infection becomes more established one of the first things that patients report is that they notice consistent, and hard-to-treat bad breath. This occurs because the same bacteria that cause these infections emit malodors as they grow and proliferate.
You may also see plaque and tartar build up on your smile as the oral infection takes root. Plaque and tartar present as brown, yellow, or just generally dark coloration along the patient’s gum line or between the patient’s teeth.
Over time your gum tissue itself will begin to change. You might notice that your gums:
· Are prone to bleeding, especially when you’re eating or brushing
· Begin to recede from your dental enamel—you can actually see a gap between your tooth and the edge of your gum tissue (these gaps are called periodontal pockets).
· Look red, inflamed, and swollen
· Feel sore and painful
In severe cases of periodontal disease your teeth may start to feel loose, and you may even suffer from premature tooth loss as a result.
If you think that you may be dealing with gum disease, please reach out to your dental health professional. Our Santa Monica periodontal dentists are happy to speak with you and to help you schedule your personal consultation with our helpful team. Contact our team by phone or through our website—we are here for you!