Periodontal Disease: Signs and Symptoms

When it comes to dental health, your gums are just as important as your teeth. Everyone knows that plaque on your teeth is bad, but if that plaque gets below the gum line, it can lead to periodontal disease, which will cause major damage to your teeth and mouth. The disease usually begins as gingivitis, which gives you red gums and chronic bad breath. If left untreated, this can turn into periodontitis, a disease that destroys the tissue holding your teeth in place.

Periodontal disease is generally hard to detect in the early stages. Most people don’t get diagnosed until their 30s or 40s, so it is important to be on the lookout for symptoms. Look at your teeth and gums in the mirror, and lightly press them to feel if anything hurts. When checking yourself for periodontal disease, you should ask yourself these questions:

• Do you regularly have bad breath?
• Are your gums red, swollen, or tender?
• Have you noticed any bleeding around your gums or teeth?
• Does it hurt when you chew food?
• Do your teeth appear to be longer than usual?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” then you may be at risk for periodontal disease, and should make an appointment at once. The professional and friendly staff at Boles, Ham, Dixon & Boles will be able to assess your symptoms, treat any gum infection that has already occurred, and help you take steps to prevent any further decay. Call 252-291-2892 to schedule an appointment at our conveniently located office. Our dentists serve patients in Rocky Mount and the surrounding communities.