The Centers for Disease Control estimates that nearly half of adults over the age of 35 have gum disease to some extent. That means the chances that you or a loved one has this chronic condition are very high — but the only way to know for sure is to visit your dentist. When you do, we will look out for some things in particular to determine whether or not you need periodontal therapy in Carmel.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
In the beginning stages, the symptoms of gum disease are so slight that they may go unnoticed. Watch out for bleeding gums — this is the most telling sign that you have an infection which requires treatment. If you routinely spit blood after you brush or floss, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. Gums that need periodontal therapy may also be red, tender, and/or visibly swollen.
Another common sign of gum disease is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that returns soon after brushing. This is due to the buildup of bacteria around the teeth and gums, which emits a foul odor that is hard to ignore.
After gum disease has progressed to moderate or severe levels, it begins to eat away at the healthy oral tissues. Gum recession, or the appearance that the gums are pulling away from the teeth, is a common side effect of gum disease. This symptom may also cause tooth sensitivity, as more of the tooth’s surface is exposed to heat and cold.
In the very latest stages of gum disease, the teeth may start to become loose and shift around. At this point, treatment is critical because tooth loss is not far behind. Seeking treatment for gum disease will help to eradicate infection so you can avoid the most serious side effect of this condition — missing teeth.
What to Do If You Have Gum Disease
If you suspect or know you have gum disease, seeking prompt treatment is of the utmost importance. Once gum disease has reached a moderate stage, repeated treatment will be reacquired to ensure the infection is treated and does not return.
When was your last visit to your Indy Dental Group dentist in Carmel? If it has been longer than six months — especially if you have had gum disease in the past — you are overdue for a visit. Good oral and overall health requires healthy gums and frequent visits to the dentist, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment!
About Indy Dental Group
The team of doctors and dental professionals at Indy Dental Group offer a variety of services from the comfort of a state-of-the-art dental office. To learn more about their services or to book a visit for comprehensive dental care, including treatment for gum disease in Carmel, you are invited to contact Indy Dental Group at (317) 571-1900.