How Do I Know If I Have Periodontal Disease?
Symptoms are often not noticeable until the disease is advanced. They include:
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Red, tender, or swollen gums
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive Teeth
Any of these symptoms may signal a serious problem which should be checked by a dentist. At your dental visit:
- The dentist will ask about your medical history to identify underlying conditions or risk factors (such as smoking) that may contribute to periodontal disease.
- The dentist or hygienist will examine your gums and note any signs of inflammation.
- The dentist or hygienist will use a tiny ruler called a ‘probe’ to check for periodontal pockets and to measure any pockets. In a healthy mouth the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.
- The dentist or hygienist may take an x-ray to see if there is any bone loss.
- The dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist who treats gum disease.
Who Gets Periodontal Disease And How Can I Prevent It?
People usually don’t show signs of gum disease until they are in their 30’s or 40’s. Men are more likely to have periodontal disease than women. Although teenagers rarely develop periodontitis, they can develop gingivitis, the milder form of gum disease. Most commonly, gum disease develops when plaque is allowed to build up along and under the gum line.
What can I do to prevent gum disease?
- Brush your teeth twice a day (with a ‘ADA’ approved fluoride toothpaste)
- Floss daily
- Visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning
- Don’t use tobacco products
More on this subject soon!