Common Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the technical name for gum disease. It is typically caused by infections and can cause inflammation, pain, and discomfort. According to some estimates, about 47.2% of adults over 30 have some periodontal disease. 

Getting on top of periodontal disease is essential for your overall dental health. KimCuc Vo, DDS, and Sandra Raouf, DDS, at Dentist at Rock Creek, Cypress, Texas, are board-certified cosmetic and family dentists who can care for all of your oral health needs, from orthodontics to dental implants.

Read on to learn about the causes and common signs of periodontal disease.

Causes of periodontal disease 

Gum disease is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in your mouth, particularly around your teeth and gum. This is typically caused by bad dental habits like forgetting to brush or floss. This causes a buildup of bacteria called plaque, which eventually hardens into a substance called tartar. Because tartar is hard, it can make cleaning your teeth more difficult. 

Certain factors can heighten your risk of developing gum disease. They include: 

• Stress
• Diabetes 
• Smoking 
• Defective fillings 
• Hormonal changes 
• Poor oral habits 
• Medications that dry out your mouth 
• Genetics 

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s especially important to stay on top of your dental hygiene by keeping up with brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. 

Early signs of periodontal disease 

It’s essential to know the early signs of gum disease to get on top of it. Experiencing these symptoms could indicate gum disease or another dental issue. 

Keep an eye out for common symptoms of gum disease such as: 

• Swollen gums 
• Bad breath 
• Sensitivity 
• Painful chewing 
• Bleeding gums 
• Pus from your gums 
• Unusually bright red gums 
• Loose teeth 
• Receding gums 

There are different types of gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. When you fail to treat gingivitis, it can develop into mild or advanced periodontitis. That’s why early treatment and intervention are key. 

Treatment for periodontal disease

Treatment for gum disease depends on how severe your symptoms are. The first step in treatment is typically cleaning, especially if you have tartar. We may prescribe antibacterial medicine, which is usually applied topically. 

In severe cases, we may recommend surgery. Surgery aims to treat the infected gums and sometimes replace diseased tissues. 

Periodontal disease is preventable. Brushing and flossing daily helps you eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease and infections. Going to the dentist for yearly checkups is also crucial. If you are prone to dental issues, it’s advisable to go more frequently. 

Making regular appointments helps you stay on top of your oral health and avoid dental complications. At Dentist at Rock Creek, we take care of all your dental needs. Start taking care of your oral health today by making an appointment or calling 832-534-3801.