Many people take care of their teeth by brushing and flossing; however, they often forget to address their gums. In many cases, your teeth may appear healthy, but according to the staff at The Montana Center for Laser Dentistry, PLLC, your gums can still hide problems. It’s important to pay attention to them, as well as regularly visit the dentist, to ensure that your mouth is healthy.

3 Signs of Unhealthy Gums

1. Bleeding

If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, it can be a sign of inflammation caused by gingivitis, which will eventually lead to gum disease. As plaque builds up below the gum line, it allows bacteria to attack the tooth root, leading to inflammation. A deep cleaning by your dentist can reduce these effects—alongside regular brushing and flossing.

2. Pus

If you experience redness, sensitivity, and bleeding that accompanies pus, it means you’re dealing with a significant infection. While it’s a common sign of gum disease, pus can also signal a serious infection in the tooth root. It requires immediate treatment, so don’t delay a trip to the dentist, especially if the condition worsens.

3. Loose Teeth

In the later stages of gum disease, gum tissue will have been so damaged by infection that your gums are no longer able to hold your teeth in place. In this case, you’ll need significant treatment from a dentist, as your teeth will eventually fall out and the infection will spread. While the effects of gum disease aren’t entirely irreversible, your dentist will have to do a deep cleaning to remove damaged tissue and bacteria to create a stable hold for your teeth again.

If you’re ready to schedule your next cleaning, turn to the staff at The Montana Center for Laser Dentistry, PLLC. They offer a variety of unique services by using both traditional and laser dentistry techniques, as well as cosmetic dentistry treatments, to ensure that their patients achieve and maintain their ideal smiles. Call (406) 862-1010 for their Whitefish, MT, location or (406) 730-1010 for their Kalispell office. You can also visit their website to learn more.