Do you know how to spot the symptoms of periodontal disease, also called gum disease? Periodontal disease is a common oral infection that affects the gum tissue in your mouth, typically around the teeth.
If you have gum disease, your gums may appear swollen, unusually red, and can often be sensitive or sore. Another sign of gum disease occurs with your teeth. As gum disease develops, the tissue around your teeth can loosen. If you have any wobbly or loose teeth, inspect your gums in the surrounding area. If they appear to be receding or pulling back away from the teeth, gum disease could be to blame. If you suffer from bad breath regularly, also known as halitosis, it may be an underlying symptom of gum disease.
Usually, gum disease won’t show up until an individual is 30-40 years of age, but some genetic dispositions and hormonal imbalances can make it arrive earlier. Beyond genetics, there are numerous things that can raise your risk for gum disease and the rate at which it occurs. If you smoke or chew tobacco, the chance of gum disease will increase. Consult with your periodontist to see if any medications that you are taking could be putting you at risk.
To schedule your professional cleaning at our office with Dr. David E. Pearson and to learn more about treatment for gum disease in Lawrenceville, Georgia, simply give us a call at 770.995.9051. The best smiles begin as soon as you start caring for them.