Gum disease at any stage is a significant threat to your oral health. And because this bacterial infection has been linked to systemic diseases and illness including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, it can also negatively impact your general health, too. Because the symptoms of gum disease can damage both your oral and general health, early detection is important. At Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, your gum specialist in Worcester, MA, we look for the early warning signs in order to stop the progression. Then, with gum disease treatment, we help our patients manage the condition.
Detecting Gum Disease
Drs. Handsman and Haddad are experts in the detection and treatment of gum disease. However, you don’t necessarily need to be a dentist in Worcester to recognize the early warning signs. In fact, we think it’s important for you to know the signs in case they show up during the time in between your regular checkups.
The most common sign of gum disease is bleeding gums. This normally occurs while you are brushing and flossing your teeth. Bleeding gums are an indication that the tissue is inflamed. Other common signs are swollen and red gum tissue, another symptom of inflammation. Unfortunately, these signs can sometimes be difficult to detect, which is why dental checkups every six months are so important.
Depending on how early the signs and symptoms are recognized, you may be able to reverse gum disease with a more stringent cleaning routine at home. Otherwise, we offer a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from the visible surfaces of your teeth as well as from below the gum line. Hiding inside plaque and tartar is the bacteria that lead to gum disease. Once removed, your commitment to adhering to a good oral hygiene routine at home can prevent gum disease from advancing.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontitis
If left untreated, the early stage of gum disease—gingivitis—advances to become periodontitis. At this stage, gum tissue and the underlying bone structure that supports your teeth may be irreversibly damaged. Periodontitis is marked by:
- Receding gum
- Enlarged gum pockets around your teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus appearing between your teeth and gums
- Ill-fitting dentures or changes in the way your teeth come together when you bite
- Loose teeth
Call Our Office Today
If you’ve noticed any of the early warning signs of gum disease, or if it’s time for one of your regular dental checkups with the dentist in Worcester, then contact Handsman & Haddad Periodontics today.
