Nearly half of Americans have gum disease. Know the warning signs.
Gum disease is one of the most common problems facing American adults. This disease doesn’t just cause detrimental and long-term problems for your gums, but also your teeth and jawbone. That’s why it’s so important that you visit our Independence, MO, dentist Dr. Richard Mark for six-month dental checkups.
Let us know if you are dealing with any of these signs of gum disease:
Bleeding Gums
This is a classic symptom and one of the first to appear. While it is normal to notice a little bleeding if you just started flossing again, this problem shouldn’t persist for days or even weeks. If you notice bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, you must call our Independence, MO, family dentist as soon as possible.
Puffy Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. If you notice that your gums are puffy, inflamed, and red, this could be a sign of plaque buildup. You must pay extra attention to your brushing and flossing habits. You may also want to consider using an anti-gingivitis oral rinse. If your gums remain red and swollen for up to a week, it’s time to give us a call.
Receding Gums
This is a symptom that appears as gum disease progresses when pockets of infection develop between the teeth and gums. If gum disease isn’t treated these pockets will expand, exposing more of the teeth as the gum tissue shrinks. You may not notice these changes to your gums, but you may notice that your teeth suddenly look a bit longer than usual. Since receding gums are a sign of full-blown periodontal disease, the sooner you visit your Independence, MO, dentist the better.
While these are the top three symptoms associated with gum disease it is also important to schedule an immediate dental visit if you are also experiencing:
- Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together
- Pus between the gums and the teeth
Preserve your gum health by turning to our dentist here in Independence, MO, every six months for routine cleanings and exams. Dr. Ricahrd Mark will make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy. To schedule your next checkup, call (816) 461-3660.