Recognizing the Early Signs of Gum Disease

Oral health starts with you. From refraining from items that damage your teeth to brushing twice a day and flossing after every meal, your teeth will take as much care of you as you care for them. Because neglecting oral health can go sideways fast, resulting in periodontal disease. By understanding what signs to look out for, you understand when to seek timely intervention from a qualified Toronto periodontist, ensuring that your gums and oral health remain in top condition.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is primarily caused by plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation and infection.

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease can help prevent the condition from progressing to more severe stages.

• Red, Swollen Gums – Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If your gums appear red, swollen, or puffy, it may indicate the early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis. This inflammation is often a response to bacterial infection.
• Bleeding Gums – Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is a common early sign of gum disease. While occasional bleeding can occur, consistent bleeding should prompt a visit to your Toronto periodontist for a thorough evaluation.
• Persistent Bad Breath – Bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing and using mouthwash can be a sign of gum disease. Bacteria in the mouth produce toxins that cause persistent bad breath and an unpleasant taste.
• Receding Gums – Gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth or its root, is a significant indicator of gum disease. This can make your teeth appear longer and may lead to increased sensitivity.
• Loose or Shifting Teeth – As gum disease progresses, it can damage the supporting bone structure around your teeth. This can result in teeth becoming loose or shifting out of alignment, impacting your bite and overall oral health.

How a Toronto Periodontist Can Help

Regular dental check-ups are vital for detecting and managing gum disease. A Toronto periodontist expertly diagnoses and treats periodontal conditions, offering treatments to restore and maintain gum health.

• Professional Cleaning – In the early stages of gum disease, professional cleaning can remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing inflammation and preventing disease progression.
• Scaling and Root Planing – For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning procedure—can remove bacteria and tartar from below the gum line and smooth the roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.
• Personalized Treatment Plans – A Toronto periodontist will tailor a treatment plan to tackle gum disease, so you can get the best outcome for your oral health.
• Ongoing Maintenance – Regular periodontal maintenance appointments are crucial for monitoring gum health and preventing the recurrence of gum disease. Your periodontist will recommend an appropriate schedule for follow-up visits and cleanings.

Recognizing the early signs of gum disease and seeking prompt treatment from a Toronto periodontist can significantly impact oral health. Cumberland Periodontics and Implant Surgery provides quality periodontal care to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Don’t wait until it’s too late and schedule a consultation with our experienced denturists!