What Does Gum Disease Look Like?
Gum disease is a type of infection that can wreak havoc if left untreated. From discolored and swollen gums to loose teeth and even tooth loss, the signs of periodontal disease can be pretty alarming. But what exactly does gum disease look like, and how can you identify it in its early stages?
Learn more about the telltale symptoms here.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues. It starts with harmful bacteria buildup in the mouth, leading to gum tissue damage and bone loss. There are two main stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
What Does Gum Disease Look Like?
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest and most reversible stage of gum disease. In this stage, the gums may appear:
- Swollen and puffy
- Discolored, ranging from a reddish-pink to a deep, angry red
- Prone to bleeding, especially when brushing or flossing
These are hallmark signs of gingivitis, and they indicate that the gums are inflamed and irritated due to plaque and bacteria buildup.
Periodontitis
If you don’t treat gingivitis, it can turn into a more serious gum disease called periodontitis. In this stage, the gum tissue and underlying bone start to deteriorate. Here are some visual cues to look for:
- Gum recession, causing the teeth to appear longer
- Deepening pockets between the teeth and gums
- Pus formation around the teeth
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when biting
As periodontitis gets worse, the damage to the gums and supporting bone structures can become severe, possibly leading to tooth loss if not dealt with promptly.
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
Gingivitis is the milder, more reversible stage of gum disease. It causes redness and swelling of the gums, but the underlying bone and connective tissue are still intact. With good oral care and help from a dentist, gingivitis can often be cured.
On the other hand, periodontitis is a more advanced and destructive form of gum disease. In this stage, the infection has progressed deeper into the gum disease and the supporting bone, which can cause the teeth to become loose and even fall out. It can also change how the teeth fit together.
Signs of Healthy Gums
To better understand the signs of gum disease, it’s helpful to be able to recognize the characteristics of healthy gums. Healthy gums should:
- Be pale pink in color
- Feel firm and resilient to the touch
- Fit tightly around the teeth
- Resist bleeding when brushed or flossed
How to Treat Gum Disease (and Why It’s Important)
The good news is that gum disease is highly treatable, especially in its early stages. The first line of defense is typically scaling and root planing to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from the affected areas. This may be followed by antibiotic therapy or even surgical intervention in more advanced cases.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The easiest way to manage gum disease is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some tips to help keep it at bay:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to control the growth of harmful bacteria
- Quit smoking
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Need Periodontal Care in Point Pleasant? We’re Here to Help!
If you’re worried about your gum health or think you might have early signs of gum disease, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Coastal Dental Group. Call 732-714-1030 or contact us today to learn more.
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!