Gum problems typically occur as a result of occasional brushing or lack of flossing. They can also emerge if you consume a diet that is rich in sugar, artificial preservatives and other food dyes.
No matter how they form, if left for too long, they can decay your teeth and cause many health problems.
There are two types of widespread gum problems, known as:
- Periodontitis
- Gingivitis
Usually, gingivitis (gum inflammation) precedes periodontitis (gum disease), but both are caused by poor oral hygiene as well as genetics.
Too often, we ignore the pain in our gums, but some silent signs of gum diseases should never be neglected as they can result in different types of health problems.
Even as you visit the dentist regularly to check your teeth and gums, dental issues can still arise. Here are seven symptoms of gum disease you should never ignore.
1. Chronic inflammation
If you are experiencing chronic inflammation of your gums, there is a good chance you may be suffering from gum diseases, either gingivitis or periodontitis. People who are suffering from either of these diseases often find that their gums have become swollen and painful.
This is because pus is formed due to the infection in the gums, which then prevents the normal movement of blood in that area.
2. Redness of the gums
Often the first symptom of gum diseases is a redness of the gums.
As this becomes typically before the pain, too many people ignore it and don’t think to get it looked at until the infection and inflammation increase.
3. Bad breath
If you aren’t regularly brushing your teeth, that is one thing. But, if after consistently brushing your teeth, cleaning your tongue, and using mouthwash, you still experience tenacious bad breath, then you may have a symptom of gum disease.
How does this happen?
When the infection-causing-bacteria combine with the food particles gathered in your gums and teeth, bad breath is the result.
4. Regular bleeding
Honestly, it is normal for your gums to bleed a tiny bit when flossing or brushing occasionally. That being said, if your gums are bleeding regularly, or sometimes, even without touching them, it could be another symptom of gum disease.
If you are concerned about these symptoms, opt to ask a dentist online for prompt and helpful advice.
5. Bad tastes in your mouth
If your favorite food suddenly never tastes as good as you once remembered it, or if there is a constant disgusting taste in your mouth (that is reminiscent of foul/stale food), then you must get checked for gum diseases.
The bad tastes occur as a result of the pus secretions mixing with the saliva in the mouth, which creates a bad taste.
6. Pain while chewing food
You should always be paying attention to cavities forming in your mouth. However, if you start to endure pain while chewing even if you don’t have cavities, then it could be another silent sign of gum disease, as the inflammation it brings could be causing the pain while you eat.
7. Spongy-feeling gums
As the inflammation brings water into the gum tissues and causes them to become oedematous, your gums may start to feel spongy or notably soft and puffy. This is another prominent symptom of gum disease.
You should always be vigilant when watching for any symptoms of gum disease, but especially if you are regularly taking medicine.
Almost all medications make your mouth slightly drier, meaning there is less saliva, which includes antibacterial properties. Saliva assists in keeping germs away.
As you grow older, your mouth will become less resilient to infections than before. So, over time, you need to be more and more careful and thorough with your inspections.
No matter what age you are, form an open partnership with your dentist and dental hygienist so that you feel comfortable talking to them about any problems you may have started to notice. Pay heed to the state of your teeth and gums, and discuss any changes or issues as early as possible.
By making an appointment with an affordable dentist in Brisbane (or wherever you reside), your dentist will be able to work with you to ensure your gums remain as healthy as possible, for as long as possible.
AUTHOR BIO
Dr. Yvette Porter is the founding dentist at Apple Dental in Newstead, Brisbane, which she started over 11 years ago, and continues to own and practice there today. She works with a team of female dentists who aim to provide gentle, and affordable dental care to patients in Brisbane. Dr. Porter is a member of the Australian Dental Association and is passionate about family, and children’s dentistry, hoping to make their dental experience truly pleasant.
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