Gum disease is a serious condition that develops over the course of several months or years. If you know the signs to look out for, however, you can stay on top of it and take a proactive approach to controlling your gum disease. At Bradley M. Stewart in Olive Branch, MS, this family dentist can diagnose this condition and help you manage it. 

Here are the most common signs of gum disease to watch out for:

• Bleeding Gums: The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, which can be quite common. You’ll recognize gingivitis by bleeding gums every time you brush and floss. It’s easy to dismiss as simply brushing too hard, but it’s actually a mild infection. Luckily, gingivitis is reversible, so visit a dentist as soon as possible.

• Bad Breath: Another sign of gum disease is persistent bad breath, even after you’ve brushed your teeth. This is because plaque sticks between your teeth and can cause an infection, leading to constant bad breath.

• Receding Gums & Loose Teeth: When gingivitis is not adequately responded to, it develops into periodontal disease. In this stage of gum disease, your gums start pulling away from your teeth, making your teeth look longer. You’ll also be more prone to developing infections in the spaces between your gums and teeth. Because your body is constantly fighting infection, bone loss is common in periodontal disease, which can lead to loosened teeth. People with periodontal disease require special teeth cleaning sessions, as their plaque is harder to remove than usual.

If you have noticed any of the above signs, especially for a long period of time, contact the dentist as soon as possible to prevent the spread of gum disease. To schedule an appointment with Bradley M. Stewart, call (662) 893-5800. You can learn more about this Olive Branch dentist and their team online.