How Sleep Apnea and Snoring Affect Your Dental Health
October 31, 2024
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Nobody wants to deal with the dreaded gum disease. However, it often shows signs that it’s developing before it becomes a serious issue and, with the right care, it can be reversed. Make sure you pay close attention to the following signs and, if you do notice them, schedule a dental appointment right away.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are an early sign of a gum infection, especially if they bleed with very little probing. This happens due to inflammation, and is something that probably won’t get better on its own.
Bad Breath
You might find bad breath embarrassing and feel self conscious about it, but the reality is that it’s probably not your fault. Gum disease can have a big impact on breath, especially if there is still an unpleasant odor after brushing. Bacteria could be accruing along the gum line to cause this situation.
Tooth Sensitivity
When gums recede, they can expose sensitive areas of the tooth, including the root. This results in increased sensitivity to things like hot or cold, which you may notice while drinking cold water or eating hot food. If you notice this sensitivity, it’s time to contact your dentist.
Red or Swollen Gums
Your gums should be light pink and firm. However, if they’re inflamed, they may swell and appear redder. If your gums look irritated, you may be dealing with gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease.
Gum Pain or Tenderness
A sign that there’s something wrong with your oral health is pain or tenderness in the gums. Your gums should be firm and comfortable, but gum disease can make them painful and sensitive. The discomfort may increase when you’re eating certain foods, brushing, or flossing.
Receding Gums
When gums recede, the gum tissue pulls back from the teeth and makes teeth appear longer. This exposes each tooth’s roots, making them extremely sensitive and more likely to decay. Plaque buildup over time is usually the culprit, and if left untreated can cause serious complications like tooth loss.
Plaque Buildup
If plaque is building up along your gum line, you are at risk of facing gum disease. When it isn’t regularly removed with brushing or flossing, it hardens and turns into tartar, which only a dentist can remove. As it accumulates, it irritates gums and can cause severe issues. The best protection against plaque buildup is healthy oral hygiene. Make sure you always brush your teeth twice a day and contact your dentist if you’re worried about it.
Schedule an Appointment with Pearly Whites Today!
Visit our caring dental practice for all your oral hygiene needs! At Pearly Whites, we specialize in treating gum disease and will educate you on the best ways to care for your mouth. Our kind and compassionate team understands the discomfort and embarrassment that gingivitis can cause, which is why we do everything in our power to help you conquer it for good. Whether you need a routine cleaning or an emergency dentist, we have you covered. Contact us today!
