Pasadena, Deer Park Periodontal Disease Signs:
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a bacterial infection and the leading cause of tooth loss in the world. Periodontal disease occurs when the toxins found in plaque begin to aggravate and inflame the gum tissue. The initial bacterial infection is known as gingivitis. If the disease is not stopped it develops into periodontal disease. With the destruction of gum tissue and bone that support the teeth, the teeth become mobile and fall out.
There are many common types of periodontal disease including gingivitis and the more destructive chronic, aggressive, necrotizing periodontal disease. Regardless of the type of periodontal disease, all require rapid treatment Dr. Nugent and his Hygienists to stop the destruction of the gum tissue and bone.
Signs and Symptoms Periodontal Disease
It is very important to note that periodontal disease can progress without any signs or symptoms such as pain. This is why regular dental checkups at our office are extremely important.
Random bleeding – Bleeding when brushing, flossing or eating food is one of the most common symptoms of a bacterial gum infection. The toxins in plaque cause a bacterial infection that inflames the gum tissue. The toxins and inflation causes the gum tissue prone to bleeding.
Pain, redness or swelling – A bacterial gum infection may be present if the gums are swollen, red or painful for no obvious reason. It is vital to stop the progression of the infection before the gum tissue and jaw bone have completely destroyed. It is also important to treat the infection before it is transported via the bloodstream to other areas of the body.
Loose teeth – A sign of rapidly progressing periodontal disease is the loosening or shifting of the teeth. As the bone tissue gets destroyed, teeth that were once firmly attached to the jawbone become unstable and shift in position.
Growing Teeth – No, the teeth are not growing. Teeth will appear longer because the gum tissue and bone recedes. This results in more of the tooth and root showing on teeth. Thus, the teeth look longer and the smile appear more “toothy.”
Halitosis (Bad breath)– Foul odor can originate from back of the tongue, the food we consume, and from tobacco use. However, another source is the sulfur compounds that bacteria in gum disease excrete. Deeper gum pockets are able to hold more debris and bacteria, causing a foul odor.
Pus – The oozing of pus from the gum tissue and teeth is not normal. This is an absolute sign that a periodontal infection is in progress.
It is of extreme importance to stop the progression of periodontal disease before it causes further damage to the gum tissues and jawbone. Dr. Nugent and his team will initially assess the whole mouth with a periodontal examination in order to determine status of your gum tissue.
