Are You Paying Attention to Your Gums?

A toothache can be hard to ignore. Usually the pain can have you picking up the phone and calling a dentist within no time. Sensitive gums, however, can be a different story. It may not be as obvious when something wrong develops with our gums and it may be easier to ignore as you go about day to day life. Toronto gum disease treatment is most effective when it is administered early, at the first signs of disease, so if you see any signs of potential gum disease, it’s important to get in to see a periodontist immediately.

Unfortunately, gum disease treatment isn’t a hot topic of conversation and it may be easy to miss those early signs. Pain, swelling, bleeding or discoloration can all be signs that something isn’t right. Maybe you brush but avoid flossing because it causes your gums to bleed. If so, that’s a sign that you actually need to floss more.

Even regular brushing, flossing, and using mouth wash may not be enough to combat gum disease. A big cause of gum disease can be through the foods you eat. Eating too many sweet, fatty, or salty foods can play a role in the health of your teeth and gums.

Smoking is another risk factor for developing gum disease, as it blackens gums and can make your mouth susceptible to bacteria. While smoking may be on the outs in Toronto, gum disease treatment is still needed at the first sign of a problem. If you notice black gums, make an appointment right away to see your dentist or periodontist to ensure good oral health.

You may think, “what’s the big deal if my gums are a little swollen or bleed sometimes?” Well, the big deal comes next, when gum disease is left untreated and bacteria gets a hold below the gum line. In a person with periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and form pockets that collect debris and become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue is destroyed. Long term, the teeth will no longer be anchored in place and tooth loss may occur.

One way to keep an eye on potential gum disease is to regularly visit a periodontist in Toronto. Gum disease treatment is much more effective and easier when signs are caught early. A good periodontist will aid with early detection and help you with effective treatment before the disease progresses.