Gum Disease Symptoms

08/11/2014 12:09


Gum disease begins with basic symptoms of inflammation, but it can lead to tooth loss, jaw bone destruction and systemic illness. Proper dental care, including daily brushing and flossing and biannual check-ups from our periodontist, are essential for preventing initiation of this disease as well as its progression. However, even long-term untreated gum disease normally responds to the right procedures. Here is more about gum disease symptoms and how they are treated.


Common Symptoms

Early gum disease, also called gingivitis, can often be recognized by gum redness, swelling and bleeding during brushing and flossing. As gingivitis advances towards periodontitis, patients may suffer from halitosis, abscess, tooth loosening, tooth loss and jaw bone deterioration. Gum disease symptoms can also include cardiovascular disease and lung disease if the oral bacteria enter the bloodstream through the damaged lining of the mouth.


How Symptoms Are Treated

The treatment used for gum disease symptoms can vary depending on individual symptoms and severity. If patients visit our periodontist when they begin to suffer from gingivitis, they may be able to reverse the problem with antimicrobial mouthwash and scaling and root planing. This procedure involves going above and below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar, where bacteria thrive. During advanced periodontitis, patients may benefit from advanced plaque and tartar removal through gum flap surgery as well as oral restoration through tissue grafting.

Gum disease can become a very serious problem if it is left untreated over the long term. For more information about the symptoms of gum disease and the ways in which this disorder may be treated, patients can schedule a consultation with our Los Angeles periodontist.