Gum disease is one of the most dreaded dental health issues, and it’s important to recognize symptoms. The staff at Mark C. Young Dentistry in Charlottesville, VA, advise that the sooner you tell your dentist, the more likely treatment will be successful. There can be many signs, especially in the early stage of gum disease, which is why they want to share several telltale symptoms. By identifying these, you can seek treatment and avoid irreversible damage.

3 Warning Signs of Gum Disease

1. Bleeding

While it isn’t uncommon to experience bleeding when you brush or floss too hard, you need to tell your dentist about repeat incidents. This is an early sign of gum disease and is usually accompanied by swollen or tender gums. Having your dentist treat this issue early may stop more serious side-effects from developing, and in most cases, they’ll be able to clear the harmful plaque causing the problem.

2. Receding Gums

If you notice your gums are pulling away from your teeth, it’s a sign that there may be significant plaque buildup below the gum line. Your teeth may look longer, and the fringe of your gums that meet the teeth will likely be swollen or bleeding. This may mean that harmful bacteria are penetrating the sensitive root areas of your tooth. When untreated, teeth may begin to shift, and over time, fall out.

3. Chronic Bath Breath

As plaque and bacteria continue to build up below the gum line, they become difficult to clear by brushing and flossing. This can result in an infection that causes chronic bad breath, as well as a regular sour taste in your mouth. These side-effects usually show when periodontitis has developed, or when gum disease is in advanced stages, and they warrant immediate treatment.

Whether you’re concerned about gum disease or just need a routine checkup, turn to the dentists at Mark C. Young Dentistry. They offer a variety of general and cosmetic dentistry services, as well as jaw treatment, and are dedicated to helping their patients maintain a healthy smile. Call (434) 979-1365 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their practice.