In our dental office in Tuscaloosa, we take gum disease seriously. In fact, we’re going to devote the next few blogs to the topic. We want all our patients to be aware of the signs of gum disease, and how important it is to prevent it, or treat it, at the first signs.
Periodontal Disease
“Periodontal disease” is the technical name for gum disease, an infection of the tissues that support and surround your teeth. Gingivitis is early-stage gum disease and periodontitis is a more advanced and serious infection. Periodontitis can lead to loose, or even lost, teeth.
Signs of gum disease include:
● Gums that bleed during and after tooth brushing
● Red, swollen or tender gums
● Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
● Receding gums
● Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
● Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, call us ASAP! Dr. Paul Diaz will determine if you have periodontal disease and recommend treatment options for you. Our first priority is to save your natural teeth. Restorative dentistry can work wonders, but there’s nothing like smiling with your own teeth.
Protect your health…prevent periodontal disease!
According to the National Institutes of Health, smoking is the #1 risk factor for gum disease. In fact, using tobacco makes treatment more difficult. It’s never too late to quit!
Gum disease doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, so regular checkups are important. If you’re due for a regular visit, or you have noticed any of the symptoms we’ve talked about here, give us a call at our Tuscaloosa dental office at 205.210.4507 today.