Many people only consider their teeth when they think of their oral health, but your connective tissues are equally significant! For instance, did you know that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults?
Unfortunately, it’s often missed early on because it doesn’t always exhibit obvious symptoms until it progresses. Continue reading to learn more about 3 indicators that let you know you might have gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, so you can schedule a dental appointment to treat it before it worsens!
Concern #1: Bad Breath
Gum disease occurs because your mouth is full of germs, and if they are allowed to flourish, they can penetrate your connective tissues and cause an infection. If you neglect your dental hygiene routine, they can thrive in the pockets of your gums, where they produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that cause an unpleasant odor.
If you’ve noticed that your breath smells worse than usual, this could be the culprit. In many cases, brushing and flossing twice daily can remove plaque and bacteria causing it, but it’s best to make a dental appointment for a professional checkup and cleaning. Your prosthodontist or periodontist can examine your mouth to determine whether you might also need additional services, like antibiotic therapy or scaling and root planing, to mend the damage.
Concern #2: Increased Sensitivity
Have you noticed a sharp or tender sensation when eating and drinking, especially if you’re consuming overly hot or cold foods and beverages? Gingivitis causes your connective tissues to become irritated and inflamed, making them more likely to be triggered by different stimuli, like changes in temperature or pressure.
When it comes to your mouth, no pain is considered ‘normal’. If you’re feeling sore, it’s worth scheduling an appointment with your oral healthcare provider so they can identify and treat the underlying cause.
Concern #3: Bleeding Gums
If you’ve developed disease in your connective tissues, like gingivitis, you are more likely to bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. This is because bacteria and plaque form a sticky residue along your gumlines, causing aches and swelling. Scrubbing with your toothbrush and/or flossing is like yanking off a band-aid and can cause oozing, a clear sign that you’ve developed an infection.
Thankfully, gingivitis can often be halted and reversed if it’s caught early enough. Scheduling standard visits with your dentist every six months allows them to monitor your condition to catch and address early gum disease before it becomes more severe!
About the Practice
Patients at Boston Prosthodontics Dental Group benefit from a team of board-certified experts eager to help them build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. With four prosthodontists and a periodontist on staff, they provide everything from basic preventive services to more complex procedures, including gum disease treatments. They combine a caring approach with advanced technology to improve your comfort and deliver accurate results intended to last. If you’re concerned about gingivitis, you can request a checkup on the website or by calling (617) 523-5451.