Nearly 50% of American adults develop some form of periodontal (gum) disease, a bacterial infection of the tissues that surround your teeth. While the early symptoms are subtle, catching this condition in its initial stages can prevent permanent damage to your smile.
Whether you’re dealing with mild gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis, the team at Moskin Dental Associates, led by Kimberly Chan, DDS, and Jeannie Moskin, DDS, can help you get your oral health back on track. We provide targeted treatments to stop the spread of infection and preserve the integrity of your teeth and gums.
When caught early, gum disease is often fully reversible with a combination of diligent at-home care and professional treatment. Here are five signs that could point to a developing infection.
Healthy gum tissue is resilient and shouldn’t bleed during normal brushing or flossing. If you regularly notice pink in the sink, it may be a sign that bacteria-laden plaque has begun to irritate and weaken your gum tissue.
Many people avoid flossing the affected area to prevent further bleeding, but this allows more plaque to build up and infection to spread. Continue gently cleaning these sensitive areas and see our team if bleeding persists.
Gum disease is one of the most common causes of chronic bad breath, or halitosis. As bacteria break down food particles in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, they produce gases that result in a foul odor or a bad taste in your mouth.
Unlike occasional strong breath that follows a flavorful meal, brushing your teeth or using mouthwash provides little relief from this type of halitosis, also known as “perio breath.” Professional dental cleanings reach the spots your toothbrush misses, eliminating trapped bacteria for fresh breath and healthy gums.
Your gums should be firm to the touch and a light coral-pink color. But when your immune system detects an overgrowth of bacteria in the area, it sends extra blood to the gums, making them red, shiny, and swollen.
Puffy, inflamed gums are more likely to trap food debris, fueling the infection and worsening swelling. A deep dental cleaning removes hardened plaque below the gumline, which allows the tissue to finally heal and return to its normal, healthy state.
Chronic inflammation causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where food particles and plaque can easily collect. As periodontal disease progresses, receding gums may also begin to expose more of the surface of your teeth, making them appear longer.
While gum tissue can’t grow back once it’s gone, our team can prevent further gum recession by treating the underlying infection. Once the area is healthy and free of bacteria, we may recommend restorative options like gum grafting to protect the exposed roots.
Hard enamel protects the tooth’s crown, above the gumline. When periodontitis causes the gumline to retreat, it exposes the softer, porous dentin covering the roots, which allows hot and cold sensations to travel directly to the nerve in the center of the tooth.
Addressing gum disease promptly is the only way to stop teeth sensitivity from worsening. If discomfort persists after the infection is cleared, options like dental sealants, fluoride varnishes, and desensitizing toothpastes can help you enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without cringing.
Prioritizing your gum health today is the best way to protect your smile for years to come. Schedule an appointment at Moskin Dental Associates in Lincoln Square, Chicago, Illinois, for a personalized evaluation — simply call the office or use our online booking tool.
