5 Signs of Deteriorating Gum Health

YourGilbert, AZ dentist at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry encourages you to have a dental exam at least once every six months. One of the important reasons for this is because of the way that gum disease develops. Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight or even over the course of a few weeks. It develops over several months and years. Signs include:

1. Red or Swollen Gums

Healthy gums are pink and firm. Red, swollen gums are one of the most evident signs when gum disease starts. The gums become inflamed due to the infection. At this stage, the gum disease can be halted and reversed with the help of your dentist.

2. Bleeding Gums

Are your gums bleeding when you brush or floss? This isn’t normal for healthy gums unless you’re using excessive force. Bleeding gums are a cause for concern and may indicate deteriorating gum health.

3. Receding Gums

The expression “long in the tooth” refers to receding gums. More of the tooth shows when gums recede, making it appear longer than normal. What’s actually happening is that the gums are pulling away from the tooth. Aside from tooth sensitivity, this eventually leads to tooth loss without professional dental intervention.

4. Pus Between Teeth and Gums

The presence of pus or a white, creamy secretion between the teeth and gums is a definite sign of gum infection. This usually occurs in more advanced stages of gum disease, whererestorative dentistry in Gilbert, AZ, may be needed.

5. Pain and/or Discomfort

Any consistent pain or discomfort in the gums is a warning sign. While not all gum diseases cause pain, paying attention to any persistent discomfort is important.

By visiting your dentist at least twice a year, your dentist may successfully detect and diagnose signs of gum disease. Contact us today to book your next dental exam.