{"id":1216,"date":"2016-04-05T08:03:07","date_gmt":"2016-04-05T14:03:07","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.alpinedentalhealth.com\/?p=1216"},"modified":"2022-07-07T14:13:33","modified_gmt":"2022-07-07T20:13:33","slug":"how-to-identify-periodontal-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alpinedentalhealth.com\/how-to-identify-periodontal-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Identify Periodontal Disease Early"},"content":{"rendered":"
Periodontal disease (or gum disease) is caused by bacteria buildup that forms between brushing. When there are longer periods of time between brushing, bacteria is given the opportunity to grow, and spread throughout the mouth.\u00a0 This slimy substance found on your teeth may seem like a small problem, but if left on its own, it will lead to much greater health problems.<\/p>\n
Several factors that can contribute to this disease are crooked or misaligned teeth, smoking, genetics, stress, and certain medications. Even if you practice healthy dental habits daily, it\u2019s important to be aware of the signs of unhealthy gums.<\/p>\n
A body\u2019s immune system is the first to respond to bacteria presence. When a bacterium is present in your mouth, inflammation and redness will occur around your gums. This is a sign that your immune system is at work, containing the infection and preventing it from spreading. However, there are other factors that contribute to the effectiveness of ones immune system, which is why some people are more prone to gum disease than others.<\/p>\n
As periodontal disease is caused by the overgrowth of bacteria, you may often have a bad taste in your mouth, causing bad breath.\u00a0 This is typically also associated with gingivitis.<\/p>\n
One of the first signs that periodontal disease is beginning to develop is gingivitis, demonstrated by sore and reddened gums. Bleeding, which can often be confused as the result of brushing too hard or flossing, is also a sign of gingivitis and is commonly ignored. While gingivitis is always a condition developed prior to gum disease, it does not have to lead to this disease. Making it a point to visit the dentist will help prevent further spreading of bacteria and the development of gum disease.<\/p>\n
As periodontal disease progresses, gums will recede exposing the root. This will cause tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and changes in pressure, and is a sign that you\u2019re in need of immediate dental care.<\/p>\n
As the disease progresses, small pockets begin to form in the gum line. These pockets are undetectable to the eye, but as they spread will cause noticeable pain and swelling. Discharge from the gum tissue will also occur as the pus pockets multiply.<\/p>\n
A later stage of the disease is jawbone deterioration, which causes teeth to loosen and shift. It will be uncomfortable to eat, and your teeth are likely to begin falling out.<\/p>\n