Gum Disease (cont.)
What are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease may progress painlessly, producing few obvious
signs, even in the late stages of the disease. Although the symptoms of
periodontal disease often are subtle, the condition is not entirely without
warning signs. Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease. They
include:
- Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or
bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way teeth fit together upon biting down, or in the fit of
partial dentures.
Even if you don't notice any symptoms, you may still have some degree of gum
disease. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the
molars. Only a dentist or a periodontist can recognize and determine the
progression of gum disease.
How Does My Dentist Diagnose Periodontal Disease?
During a periodontal exam, your dentist or periodontist typically checks for
these things:
- Gum bleeding, swelling, firmness, and pockets (the space between the gum
and tooth; the larger and deeper the pocket, the more severe the disease)
-
Teeth movement and sensitivity and proper teeth alignment
- Your jawbone to help detect the breakdown of bone surrounding your teeth
How is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The goals of periodontal treatment are to promote reattachment of
healthy gums to teeth; reduce swelling, the depth of pockets, and the risk of
infection; and to stop disease progression. Treatment options depend on the
stage of disease, how you may have responded to earlier treatments, and your
overall health. Options range from nonsurgical therapies that control bacterial
growth to surgery to restore supportive tissues. A full description of the
various treatment options is provided in
Gum Disease Treatments.
Next: How Can Gingivitis Be Prevented? »
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