Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to serious dental problems. The early stages of gum disease, gingivitis, can be reversed with professional treatment and good oral health care. Untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is irreversible.

Here are the common symptoms:

Bleeding Gums

The most common symptom of gum disease is bleeding from your gums when you brush or floss your teeth or even spontaneously. This happens because your gums are inflamed and irritated due to infection caused by plaque buildup on your teeth. This buildup of plaque causes irritation in the gum tissue, causing it to bleed. If your gums aren’t getting healthier, this isn’t a good sign. It’s vital that you maintain good oral hygiene habits to help avoid this happening.

Swollen Gums

When gum disease is left untreated, the gum tissue can swell and bleed. This is especially true if the roots are exposed because the gums have no protection around them. This can be painful for the individual, as well as embarrassing if it occurs in a more visible area such as the smile line or front of the lips.

If gum swelling occurs, it is best to contact your dentist as soon as possible so the problem can be treated. This can help prevent the gums from becoming infected and further damage to the jawbone and surrounding teeth.

Bad Breath

Untreated gingivitis causes persistent bad breath. This is because the bacteria causing gum disease also contribute to halitosis. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day will help prevent these conditions, but if you already suffer from chronic halitosis, schedule a consultation with us to discuss other treatments available to you.

Gum Recession

One of the first symptoms of gum disease is gum recession, which happens when the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth pulls away from the teeth’s roots. Healthy gums fit closely around each tooth, creating a protective barrier against bacteria and plaque buildup along the gum line. When gums recede, this protective layer is lost, leaving the roots of the teeth and gums exposed and at risk of infection.

Please call us immediately if you experience any of the symptoms listed above. 

To learn more, visit us at 310 S Dale Mabry Hwy Suite#120, Tampa, FL 33609. Contact us at (813) 999-1092 or visit our website to book an appointment.