Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Quick Summary

Bleeding when brushing or flossing, red or swollen tender gums, and persistent bad breath can be early signs of gum disease and are worth checking before the problem progresses. More advanced warning signs include gums pulling away from teeth, teeth spacing or shifting, or changes in how partial dentures fit. Daily brushing and flossing plus regular cleanings help prevent gum disease, and you may need extra monitoring if you smoke, are pregnant, have diabetes, or have a family history of gum disease.

Key Takeaways

• Watch for bleeding when you brush or floss, swollen or tender gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or teeth that feel loose or shift position.
• Ask your dentist or periodontist to measure your gum pocket depths during your exam, as depths greater than 3mm can indicate gum disease.
• If you notice any warning signs, schedule an appointment promptly because early-stage gum disease is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
• You should request a comprehensive periodontal evaluation if you have risk factors like smoking, diabetes, or a family history of gum disease.

Concerned you may be suffering from a form of periodontal (gum) disease? Heard the statistic that more than half of adults in the Untied States suffer from some form of gum disease?  As leading periodontists in the Los Angeles, Brentwood and Santa Monica areas, Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky specialize in gum disease treatment and encourage patients to contact them at the first sign of a problem!  If you are worried about your gums bleeding slightly or if you have noticed recession in your gums—you may be at risk.  Check out these telltale gum disease warning signs and then schedule an appointment with your expert Los Angeles periodontists today!

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Have you noticed that your gums sometimes bleed after brushing or flossing? Worried that bleeding gums may be a sign of a larger problem?  Well, that is a correct assumption! If you have gums that bleed easily or if they are red, swollen or tender, it could be a sign that your gums are unhealthy.  Another indication that you may be suffering from periodontal disease is persistent bad breath—though there are a few other factors that could lead to this annoying problem!

More extreme signs that you are suffering from periodontal disease include gums that have pulled away from the teeth, permanent teeth that are separating, or any change to the fit of partial dentures. If you notice a change in the way your teeth fit together, it is definitely time to schedule a consultation with your expert Santa Monica periodontists.

Prevent Gum Disease

Without proper dental hygiene, anyone can develop some form of gum disease. However, there are preventative measures you can take if you’re experiencing warning signs or concerns.  Brushing twice a day and flossing daily can have the biggest impact on the health and appearance of your teeth.  Regular cleanings with your dentist will also help with the hard-to-reach or hard-to-spot cleaning areas.

People who smoke or use chewing tobacco are extremely prone to gum disease and should ask their doctors for tips on quitting!

Some people are more at risk for gum disease, so extra care for oral hygiene is necessary.  If you’re pregnant, have a family history of gum disease, have crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean or have diabetes, speak with a periodontist to ensure a healthy dental plan to avoid periodontal disease!

Also, be aware that medications like steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, oral contraceptive and some calcium channel blockers have been know to cause gum disease.

Remember: to avoid being part of the statistic, brush twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist or periodontist for regular check ups and cleanings!

Contact a Board-Certified Periodontist

On your next visit to the Center for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy, ask your periodontal professional if you may be at risk for gum disease.  Call us at (310) 826 8242 or contact Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky and they will ensure the best treatment and prevention plan to keep your gums looking and feeling healthy for years to come.

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