Share:

Gingivitis turns into gum disease, which is a painful and serious illness that causes issues from swollen gums to loose teeth. With diligent home care and teeth cleanings from your dentist, you can reduce the chances of developing gum disease. While this illness is caused by several factors, including smoking, hormonal changes, and certain illnesses, it’s usually due to lacking dental hygiene. Below are a few signs to look for, so you can immediately schedule a dental appointment.

What Are Some Common Signs of Gum Disease?

1. Red, Swollen Gums

As bacteria build up in the mouth from insufficient dental care and other bad habits, such as consuming excessive sugar, the gums become red and irritated. Inflammation is often accompanied by bleeding, which can occur when you brush and floss.

Bleeding gums create openings that allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause issues such as blood clots and strokes. Gum disease also shares a link with heart disease.

2. Gum Recession

dentistGum tissue recedes due to bacterial breakdowns, which makes the teeth look longer because of exposed roots. Pockets can form between the teeth and gums as the condition worsens, which allows bacteria to accumulate and inflict more damage.

Gum recession also contributes to tooth sensitivity because it exposes sensitive nerves, with roots additionally susceptible to decay and wear.

3. Foul Breath

Excessive bacteria in the mouth from infrequent teeth cleanings by a dentist and poor oral hygiene cause chronic bad breath, or halitosis. While improving oral care can help prevent foul breath and bad tastes in the mouth, gum grafting by a dentist may be necessary depending on gum pocket depth.

4. Loose Teeth

As gum tissue breaks down and recedes, it no longer provides teeth with a strong foundation. Lack of structural support causes teeth to feel loose in the later stages of gum disease. Without treatment from a dentist, which can include gum grafting and strict home-care instructions, teeth will eventually fall out. 

 

If you think you have gingivitis or gum disease, make an appointment with the Dental Clinic of Onalaska. Based in La Crosse County, WI, this dental practice serves residents of all ages, offering teeth cleaning and whitening, sealants, extractions, veneers, and implants. Call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment or learn more about their services online

tracking