Gum Disease Symptoms

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Gum disease, or periodontal disease, encompasses a wide range of diseases of the gum. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, it goes all the way from minor inflammation to serious diseases that cause the loss of gums and teeth. It is important to understand the symptoms that may be present with this disease.
There are various signs of gum disease. Not all symptoms will appear in all patients. The severity of these can range as well.
Bad breath is one symptom of gum disease. What you may think of an annoying but benign trait can actually be a symptom of something much more serious. It is more likely to be from gum disease if it is consistent. If people are constantly mentioning this to you, then you may want to consider whether it could be from an issue of the gums.
When you have gum disease, you may find that your gums become red. Another very common symptom is inflammation. You may be able to feel and/or see this. This is something that you dentist specifically looks for when he is doing his examination.
In addition to being red and/or swollen, your gums may feel tender. Just touching them may hurt. Brushing your teeth can actually become painful. Your gums may start to bleed.
Your gums can start to recede when you suffer from gum disease. It may appear like your teeth are longer because you will be able to see more of them.
Chewing can become difficult in someone who is suffering from gum disease. It may hurt to chew. In addition, sensitivity in the teeth can occur in periodontal disease. Chewing or brushing can exacerbate this. Even more striking, your permanent teeth can actually become loose from the disease. In severe cases you can lose teeth.
It is important to go to your dentist immediately if you are experiencing any of the signs of gum disease, especially if they indicate a change from the past. He or she will do an exam and may perform tests such as x-rays to search for possible gum disease. If he or she thinks that you have a problem, you will be referred to a periodontist. This is a type of dentist who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gums. Depending on your exact condition, he or she will recommend a course of treatment.
With prompt diagnosis, you will have the best chance of successfully treating your gum disease. Look for the above symptoms as signs that you may be experiencing periodontal disease.