Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease
One day you wake up, brush your teeth and notice a slight bleeding from your gums. You attribute it to aggressive brushing, but the next week, the bleeding recurs and now you also feel a slight pain. Is it serious? Although many people think that a little blood in the gums is nothing to worry about, it could be an early sign of periodontal disease. How do you identify it early? Let's take a closer look.
What is periodontal disease?
Before discussing the symptoms, it is important to understand what exactly periodontal disease is. This condition is an infection that affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth, namely the gums, bone and periodontal ligament. In its initial stage, known as gingivitis, it only affects the gums, but if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form that can lead to tooth loss.
Signs of periodontal disease you shouldn't ignore
One of the biggest problems with periodontal disease is that it often causes no pain in the early stages, leading many people to ignore the early warning signs. Here are some of the most common symptoms you should look out for:
Gums that bleed easily
One of the clearest and most common signs of periodontal disease is bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. It's easy to ignore, especially if you think you're brushing too hard, but this symptom is often a sign of inflammation and that something is wrong.
Red, swollen or painful gums
¿Has notado que tus encías están más rojas de lo normal o se sienten hinchadas? La inflamación y el dolor son indicativos de que hay una infección presente. En lugar de tener un tono rosa pálido, las encías pueden volverse de un rojo intenso, lo cual es un signo claro de inflamación.[vc_row css_animation=»» row_type=»row» use_row_as_full_screen_section=»no» type=»full_width» angled_section=»no» text_align=»left» background_image_as_pattern=»without_pattern»][vc_column][vc_single_image image=»3706″ img_size=»large» alignment=»center» style=»vc_box_shadow_3d» css=»» qode_css_animation=»»][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Receding gums or visible separation of teeth
If you notice that your teeth appear «longer» or notice a growing space between them and your gums, you may be experiencing gingival recession, a symptom of advanced periodontitis. Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth, making them more sensitive and vulnerable to decay.
Persistent bad breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is another symptom of periodontal disease that is often overlooked. If you have a bad smell in your mouth that doesn't go away after brushing, it may be due to bacteria building up in the periodontal pockets that form around your teeth.
Loose teeth or tooth mobility
When periodontal disease progresses, it can affect the bone that supports the teeth. As a result, teeth may begin to move or feel loose. This is a warning sign that requires immediate dental attention, as it could lead to tooth loss.
Chewing pain or sensitive teeth
Tooth sensitivity, especially when chewing or eating hot or cold foods, can be a sign that the gums are in trouble. Exposed tooth roots and loss of bone support can cause this discomfort.
Diagnosis of periodontal disease
Identifying periodontal disease early is crucial to avoid major complications. If you have noticed any of the above symptoms, it is advisable to go for a dental check-up. At Vidarte Clinics, we offer you a free initial consultation to assess the state of your gums and propose the best treatment plan.
Importance of early diagnosis
Early detection of periodontal disease is essential to prevent progression to more serious stages. When identified in the early stages, such as gingivitis, the disease can be treated and reversed with good oral hygiene and professional treatment. However, if allowed to progress, it can lead to irreversible loss of tissue and bone, making treatment more complex and costly.
How to prevent periodontal disease
Although periodontal disease is common, the good news is that it can be prevented with some simple daily care. Here are a few tips:
Frequently asked questions about periodontal disease
Can periodontal disease be cured?
In the early stages, such as gingivitis, the disease can be reversed with good oral care. However, in more advanced stages, it can only be controlled.
Does bad breath always indicate periodontal disease?
Not always, but if bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it is advisable to visit the dentist for further evaluation.
Can children have periodontal disease?
Yes, although it is less common. Gingivitis is more common in children, but can progress if not treated properly.
Does periodontal disease affect general health?
Yes, the bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy complications.
Is electric toothbrushing better than manual brushing?
Both are effective if used correctly, but electric toothbrushing may be more efficient at removing plaque.
Is a mouthwash necessary?
It is not essential, but an antibacterial rinse can be a good addition to daily oral hygiene..