Periodontal disease—also known as gum disease—is one of the most common dental issues affecting adults. It starts quietly but can lead to serious consequences like tooth loss, gum recession, and even health problems beyond your mouth. At Contour Dentistry in Cornelius, NC, Dr. Patel and his team are committed to helping patients spot the early signs of periodontal disease and take action before it gets worse. If you’re wondering whether your gums are as healthy as they should be, here are five warning signs of periodontal disease to look out for.
1. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing Is Not Normal
- Many people think it’s normal for gums to bleed a little when brushing or flossing, especially if they haven’t been flossing regularly. But in reality, bleeding gums are one of the earliest signs of gum disease.
- Bleeding occurs when the gum tissue becomes inflamed due to plaque buildup along the gumline. Left untreated, this inflammation (called gingivitis) can advance into full-blown periodontal disease. If your gums bleed regularly, especially without aggressive brushing, it’s time to take notice.
2. Swollen, Red, or Tender Gums
Healthy Gums Should Be Firm and Pink
- Another common symptom of early gum disease is a change in the appearance and feel of your gums. Gums that are red, puffy, or sensitive to the touch may be reacting to plaque and tartar buildup, which harbors bacteria that irritate the tissue.
- If you notice that your gums look darker than usual or feel sore—even if you’re not in pain—it could be a sign of periodontal inflammation. The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with professional care and a consistent home routine.
3. Persistent Bad Breath or a Bad Taste in Your Mouth
When Mints Don’t Help, There Might Be an Underlying Issue
- Chronic bad breath (halitosis) isn’t just embarrassing—it can also be a symptom of something more serious. The bacteria responsible for gum disease release foul-smelling compounds that can linger in your mouth even after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash.
- Additionally, you may notice a bad taste that doesn’t go away, which could be caused by infection or decaying tissue beneath the gumline. If bad breath is a constant issue, it’s worth checking in with your dentist to rule out periodontal disease.
4. Gum Recession or Longer-Looking Teeth
Gum Recession Can Signal Serious Gum Disease
- Have you noticed your teeth looking longer than they used to? It’s not your imagination—it might be your gums pulling away. Gum recession is a common sign of progressing periodontal disease, where the gums start to detach from the tooth surface due to infection and inflammation.
- As the gums recede, they expose more of the tooth root, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities in the root surface, and even mobility or loosening of the teeth. If you’re noticing receding gums, it’s important to seek treatment before it leads to permanent damage.
5. Loose Teeth or Changes in Your Bite
Tooth Mobility Is a Red Flag
- In advanced stages of periodontal disease, the infection reaches the deeper structures that hold your teeth in place—like the bone and ligaments. When these are damaged, teeth may start to feel loose or shift in position. You might even notice that your bite feels different, or that your teeth don’t fit together the same way they used to.
- If you’re experiencing any mobility in your teeth, don’t wait. Periodontal disease can progress quickly, and the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to reverse the damage.
Why Early Detection Matters
The sooner you catch periodontal disease, the easier it is to treat. In its earliest stage (gingivitis), it can often be reversed with professional cleanings and better oral hygiene. As it advances, it requires deeper cleaning treatments like scaling and root planing—and in severe cases, even surgical intervention. That’s why recognizing these signs early on—and acting on them—is so important to protecting your smile.
Don’t Wait—Your Gums Are Talking!
Whether you’re noticing bleeding gums or haven’t had a dental checkup in a while, we’re ready to support you with compassionate care and advanced technology. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, now is the time to act. Schedule an appointment with Contour Dentistry to get your gums evaluated and receive personalized treatment recommendations. Call us today at (704) 702-6428 to book your visit. Let’s protect your smile—together!