Signs of Gum Disease You Need to React To

It is estimated that gum disease is the most common type of oral health condition present in the world. Many Americans have it and most do not realize they do. However, if you do suffer from this condition and you do not do anything about getting rid of it, it can have a lasting impact on your well-being. There is even a link between good oral health and a healthy heart. Don't put off seeing your dentist, but even in between visits, you can spot the signs that you may have this condition. If you believe you do, realize the sooner you take action, the easier it is to reverse.

What to Look for in Your Smile

When it comes to protecting your smile, gum disease is the enemy. However, there are steps you can take to boost your oral health. This condition occurs when bacteria that's present in the mouth and on the teeth invade the gums and the spaces under the gum lining. This causes inflammation as the bacteria grow at a very fast pace. The following are some of the most typical signs you may have this condition.

Gingivitis is the precursor to gum disease. The easiest way to know if you have this condition is to look at your mouth when you brush your teeth. If you have bleeding here, even just a bit of pink, it indicates this condition is present.

If you have sensitivity at the gums, this is also a big factor to take into consideration. When there is sensitivity present here, you may feel as if just touching them hurts.

As the condition worsens, the gums become red and swollen. This can be painful but it can also clearly be seen by simply looking into your mouth.

As the condition continues to worsen, these soft tissues of your mouth suffer from the bacteria invasion. As a result, they begin to pull away from the teeth. Sometimes, they can even fall off down to the very bottom of the tooth.

Most who suffer from this condition also have bad breath. Even if you brush your teeth regularly, this bad breath continues. That is because it is the odor of the gas produced by the bacteria.

If you have any of these signs of gum disease, get in to see your dentist right away. He or she can offer you specific steps to take to get the amount of bacteria present under control. In addition, a deep cleaning can help to restore a significant amount of the health to your teeth. Do not put it off because that can allow the condition to worsen significantly.