A Hidden Risk: 5 Signs You May Have Gum Disease (And What Can Be Done)

Dental problems can often be quiet. Unless you regularly visit the dentist in Georgetown, KY, issues like tooth decay and gum disease can easily go unidentified and left to foster until they put your oral health at risk. For that reason, gum disease or gingivitis can be particularly damaging.

When plaque accumulates along the gum line, it can cause infection of the gums. Over time, this can affect the support of your teeth, causing tooth loss. To prevent this problem, paying attention to some early signs is crucial.

5 Signs of Gum Disease You Should Pay Attention to

1. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

Healthy gums should be pale pink and firm. If you notice yours are red and inflamed, this is an early sign of gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease.

2. Bleeding Gums (Especially When Brushing or Flossing)

Bleeding gums are a key warning sign that gum tissue is irritated or infected.

Even light bleeding during flossing or brushing is abnormal and indicates potential gum problems. If this occurs, you should visit a periodontal professional immediately.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Persistent bad breath, even with good oral hygiene, is often a sign of oral issues. The bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities can produce sulfur compounds that cause chronic bad breath.

This may leave a sour, bad aftertaste in your mouth.

4. Receding Gums or Longer-Looking Teeth

Your teeth don't continue to grow once you reach adulthood. If you notice they appear longer, it doesn’t mean the teeth are getting bigger—it means the gums are getting shorter.

As the plaque along your gum line irritates your gums, they will start to recede, exposing more of the tooth surface and causing increased dental sensitivity.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Over time, the infection in your gums can spread to the bone, damaging the supporting tissue that keeps your teeth standing. Patients may notice their bite feels different, or their teeth may start to loosen, requiring immediate treatment.

What Can Be Done to Treat Gum Disease?

The main cause of gum disease is plaque accumulation, so treatment options often focus on eliminating these sticky bacteria. Two types of procedures can be conducted:

• Scaling and Root Planning: Scaling entails using specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar accumulation from both above and below your gum line. The rough areas on your tooth roots are then smoothed out, which helps your gums heal and reattach to your teeth. It also makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to.
• Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment for gum disease. We use a laser to target and remove infected gum tissue while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. Additionally, by sterilizing the area, the laser lowers bacteria and hastens the healing process.

Find a Dentist in Georgetown, KY, and Protect the Health of Your Smile

Untreated gum disease can cause teeth to become looser, weaken the jawbone, and even lead to health problems like heart disease. Paying attention to potential early signs of periodontitis is crucial to prevent these issues.

If you identify any of these indicators, schedule a consultation with Georgetown Sedation Dentistry for prompt treatment. Together, we’ll assess the state of the damage and explore available solutions to put your oral health back on the right track.