Gingivitis is a condition that occurs when food particles get mixed with saliva and bacteria. This creates dental plaque, which sticks to the surface of teeth. If the plaque on your teeth is not eliminated by brushing and regular flossing, the plaque develops into calculus, also known as tartar. Tartar is tough to remove, and only an expert cleaning can remove it.
Both tartar and dental plaque contain harmful bacteria, and if not removed from your teeth, they'll begin to irritate gums and lead to gingivitis. If untreated, gingivitis spreads through the gums and into the bone and eventually leads to periodontitis.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can be painless and produce no apparent indications, even in the advanced stages of the condition. While the signs of periodontal diseases are often minimal, the disease does not come without warning symptoms. The signs and symptoms of gum disease are:
- Bleeding gums. The gums can also be sensitive or painful and often bleed when you floss or brush.
- Red and swollen gums are one of the first indications that your gums need to be examined.
- Regular bad taste and bad breath in the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth release toxins that can irritate the gums and teeth and produce a foul smell.
- Receding gums. If your teeth look more significant than they did in the past, the chances are that they're not growing; the gums have been shrinking.
- The formation of deep pockets across the space between gums and teeth.
- Shifting or loose teeth. Gum disease can affect the bones that keep your teeth together and cause them to loosen or shift.
- Changes in how teeth fit together after the bite or in the fitting of partial dentures. Periodontitis can change how your teeth are positioned when you chew.
- Sensitive teeth. If a sip of cold beverage makes you shiver, your teeth could have a message for you. This is a sign of gum disease, which usually is associated with shrinking gums. The sensitive part of the tooth, called dentin, is exposed with receding gums, causing sensitive teeth when exposed to cold water.
If you don't experience any signs, you could still have a degree of gum disease. For some, gum disease could affect just a few teeth, like the molars. Only a dentist or periodontist can identify and assess the progress of the gum condition.
Please reach out to our dental practice in Pleasanton, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist Pleasanton CA, Dr. Dogra. Please call us at (925) 600-9006 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.