Early Signs of Gum Disease

Early Signs of Gum Disease

What your dentists in Old Bridge want you to knowgum disease

Anyone can have gum disease, but not everyone recognizes it. It’s important to know if you have gum disease so you and your dentist can keep it from getting worse. Fortunately, there are some definite signs and symptoms of gum disease to look for. Your dentists at Personal Choice Dental want to help. They have office locations in Old Bridge, NJ to serve your dental needs.

Early signs of gum disease include:

  • Bleeding when you brush and floss
  • Irritated, bright red gum tissue
  • Puffy, swollen, painful gums
  • Frequent bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, chances are you have some level of gum disease. The good news is gum disease is completely reversible, but you have to act quickly. You need to begin a strict habit of brushing after meals and before bed and flossing EVERY day. You should also visit your dentist for an exam and x-rays to determine your level of gum disease. Your dental hygienist will also clean your teeth and provide valuable information on how to keep your mouth healthy.

So, why do you have gum disease? Gum disease is caused by plaque accumulation. Plaque contains millions of microscopic bacteria that produce toxins. If plaque sits on your teeth long enough, the toxins produced begin to inflame and infect your gums, causing gum disease. The infection can also progress to your supporting bone, causing bone loss. Once the supporting bone is involved, your gum disease has become periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease causes loss of soft tissue attachment (your gums) and loss of hard tissue (your bone) which can lead to tooth loss. It all starts out as easily recognizable and treatable gum disease. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the early signs and symptoms of gum disease and get treatment. Early treatment of gum disease can mean the difference between a healthy smile and developing periodontal disease.

To find out more about gum disease and treatment options call your dentists at Personal Choice Dental with offices in Old Bridge, NJ. Call today and protect your smile!

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