When the gums and bone that support your teeth get infected and inflamed, you could develop periodontal diseases. One that many people have heard of is gingivitis, and another, more serious disease is periodontitis.

According to the CDC, periodontal disease is one of the biggest threats to dental health, especially for adults. In the US, nearly 50% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease; that number increases to 70% for adults aged 65 and older.

But what are the symptoms of periodontal disease, and what warning signs should you be on the lookout for? We discuss both throughout the sections below! If you notice any of these symptoms, our South Austin dentists are always one appointment away from helping you solve all periodontal problems.

Periodontal Disease Symptoms

The following are symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Gums that are red or swollen
• Gums that are tender or bleed easily
• Gums have receded from your teeth
• Constant bad breath or bad taste
• Sensitive teeth
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Your partial dentures don’t fit how they used to

Of course, some of these warning signs can be indicative of other dental health problems, like tooth decay, cavities, or oral cancer.

To be on the safe side, if you’re exhibiting any of the symptoms above, it’s best to see a dentist right away, as they’ll know whether or not you have periodontal disease, and even more importantly what type of periodontal disesase . If you do, they’ll start you on a course of periodontal treatment immediately.

Periodontal Disease Risk Factors

A variety of factors can put you more at risk of getting periodontal disease, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Stress
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Crooked teeth
• Underlying immune-deficiencies, e.g. AIDS
• Defective filling
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy or oral contraceptives

You could also be more at risk of getting periodontal disease if there’s a history of it in your family.

Periodontal Disease Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to consistently practice good oral hygiene. Also, getting professional cleanings regularly will go a long way in preventing the harmful effects of this disease.

More severe cases require more extensive treatment, like deep cleaning of the tooth root and gums. Additionally, you could be prescribed medication that’s taken by mouth or placed on the gums. Corrective surgery may also be an option if periodontal disease has done a number on your teeth and gums thus far.

Regular brushing and flossing will remove plaque from your teeth and gums before it has a chance to harden into tartar, helping to stave off gingivitis. And if your teeth get examined by a dentist multiple times a year, you won’t be caught off guard by periodontal disease.

Think You Have Periodontal Disease? Visit Austin Dental Specialty Group

Spotting the tell-tale signs of periodontal disease on your own can be quite challenging, which is why you should get professional help if you suspect you have this disease.

At Austin Dental Specialty Group, our team of dental care experts will examine you thoroughly to determine whether or not you have periodontal disease, and if you do we’ll get you started on a course of treatment right away. Book online or call us at (512) 580.8278 to book your appointment now.