Signs of Advanced Periodontal Disease
Salem, OR
 Periodontal disease is an oral health issue that begins as a result of a bacterial infection. When bacteria and plaque accumulate on your teeth and are not removed, they can begin to irritate your gums. This irritation leads to an inflammatory response, which causes your gums to swell. The earliest warning signs of periodontal disease are red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush and floss. These symptoms often go unnoticed or ignored. As a result, the condition starts to worsen, leading to advanced periodontal disease. At Fairmount Dental Center, we can help you to recognize the symptoms so that you can get the treatment you need right away.
What Happens when Periodontal Disease Advances?
Periodontal disease is commonly thought to be a condition that only affects the health of your gums. While it affects your gums when it first starts, it can cause other serious issues as it advances. When periodontal disease goes untreated, the bacteria can reach your periodontal ligaments and your jawbone. As they do, they attack these supporting structures.
Bacteria can also enter into your bloodstream. Here, they can travel throughout your entire body, leading to, or worsening, serious health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Advanced periodontal disease can also cause complications in pregnant women as well. Treating periodontal disease is essential for restoring not just your oral health, but for protecting your overall health as well.
Signs of Advanced Periodontal Disease
There are several symptoms that can point to advanced periodontal disease. When you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential that you schedule an appointment right away.
| • |
Chronic bad breath. When pockets form in your gums, they begin to collect bacteria, plaque, and other debris. Because you cannot eliminate this accumulation, they cause bad breath that just will not go away.
|
| • |
Your gums begin to recede. As the pockets in your gums grow deeper, the infected tissue begins to die. This leads to gum recession. Your teeth begin to appear long, and you might notice small spaces appearing between your teeth. You may also begin to experience tooth sensitivity as the roots of your teeth become exposed.
|
| • |
You notice pus between your teeth and gums.
|
| • |
Your teeth become loose. As bacteria attack your periodontal ligaments and your jawbone, these structures weaken. As a result, your teeth become loose. You may begin to notice changes in your bite as your loose teeth shift out of proper alignment.
|
| • |
It may be difficult, or even painful, to bite and chew. This often occurs as a result of the changes in your bite.
|
| • |
You begin to lose teeth. When the supporting structures are too weak, they cannot hold your teeth in place anymore. As a result, the teeth fall out. |
Treating Periodontal Disease
Treating periodontal disease is essential for stopping its progression and restoring the health of your mouth. There are many treatments available. The type of treatment you receive depends upon how advanced your condition is. Treatments include:
Learn More About Periodontal (Gum) Disease and Oral Hygiene:
When you suspect periodontal disease, it is essential that you get treatment right away. For more information, and to schedule your appointment, call Fairmount Dental Center at (503) 362-8364 today.
|
