A study done by the American Academy of Periodontology in 2010 estimated that there are 64.7 million adults in America that suffer from periodontitis. With these facts presented, it’s natural to wonder about why experts aren’t doing anything to eliminate this issue. However, we always fail to consider that maybe the problem lies within ourselves.
It’s hard to admit, but we are sometimes guilty of disregarding our oral health. The good thing is that we can still do something about it today. Scheduling an appointment with a periodontist such as www.periodontistwashingtondc.com is a great way to begin.
To help you further, here are some of the most common signs of gum disease and tips that you can apply in order to prevent them from worsening.
- Red Gums
Gums can vary from light pink to dark red. A healthy gum shows a lighter shade of pink, but if your gum appears darker, it may be a sign of an infection.
- Swollen Gums
Healthy gums are always intact, but if you see that they are swelling, it could be infected – especially when it’s painful.
- Bleeding Gums
If your gums are healthy, it will never bleed out unless if there is a blunt trauma applied. If you constantly notice a metallic taste in your mouth, it’s high time that you visit a periodontist.
- Receding Gums
Having receding gums may be caused by various reasons that aren’t related to oral problems. However, this could also be a sign of a gum disease. Also, it may result to dental sensitivity as it exposes the roots of the gums.
- Loose Teeth
If you have loose teeth, this means that your periodontal ligament is not strong enough to connect your teeth to the jaw bone.
- Pus Secretion
When your gums secrete a yellowish or greenish liquid, it means that your gums are plague-ridden. You’ll see that after some applied pressure on the area, the pus oozes out easily.
- Painful or Sensitive Gums
You’ll notice these sensations when you drink and eat hot or cold foods and beverages. A healthy gum will not react when exposed to such conditions, but an infected one will always give you a jolt of discomfort.
- Bad Breath
Bad breath is the result of bacteria in your mouth that causes gum diseases. This is common for most people. However, if the mouth odor persists even after brushing, you need to see your dentist.
What Can You Do About It?
As soon as possible, change your lifestyle into a healthier one. Avoid foods that are acidic and sugary to prevent bacteria from rapidly growing in your mouth. Also, you need to maintain a good oral hygiene every day, so that plaque will not form and damage your gums further.