Periodontal disease describes the different illnesses that can affect your gums, ranging from early stages like gingivitis to late stages like advanced periodontitis. Your dentist will tell you that the key to prevention is thorough dental hygiene, but even then, issues can still develop. Here’s how to tell if you need dental care.

4 Urgent Signs of Periodontal Disease

1. Bleeding, Painful Gums

While bleeding can occur for other reasons, such as something lodged between your teeth or brushing too hard, gums that bleed consistently with regular brushing indicate periodontal disease. Your gums may also be tender and inflamed.

2. Bad Breath & Taste in Mouth

Chronic bad breath and persistent, unpleasant tastes in your mouth can be caused by progressed gum disease. As the issue worsens, it forms plaque-filled pockets in your gums that trap food particles, which then decay in your mouth. Gum disease can also cause bad breath and unusual tastes in your mouth due to the infection, as the inflamed or dying tissue gives off an odor.

3. Receding Gums

Periodontal disease leads to the erosion of gum tissue in your mouth, causing your gums to slowly peel back to reveal the lower part of your tooth. This is problematic, as it exposes more of your tooth’s structure to bacteria and infection. Left unaddressed, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, causing tooth sensitivity and decay.

4. Loosening or Shifting of Teeth

Since periodontal disease weakens your gums, it can cause your teeth to shift into misalignment, turning them at odd angles. If you bite down and your teeth don’t line up the way they should, make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Gum disease also causes them to loosen from their sockets, which you’ll notice if you can wiggle them with your fingers or tongue slightly.

In Kenai, AK, dentist James Julien, DDS, and his team offer comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages, including treatment for periodontal disease. For more than 20 years, their practice has been trusted to provide compassionate dental service options, with a kind staff of dental care experts. Offering both general and cosmetic dental services, the team prides themselves on a patient-first attitude. Most local insurances are accepted, and they offer same-day appointments. Explore their services online or call them at (907) 283-4857.