Signs You Shouldn't Wait Anymore You Need to See A Periodontist ASAP

Did you know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults? Many adults are currently living with some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, and it can eventually lead to tooth loss if not treated early on. As such, diagnosing gum disease in its early stages is crucial. 

Here are some tell-tale signs that are good indicators you can't wait any longer to see your periodontist. 

Swollen, Sore Or Bleeding Gums 

Experiencing soreness or bleeding in your gums should not be taken lightly. If you notice bleeding in your gums when brushing your teeth, it could be a sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease directly linked to excessive plaque build-up. 

Red, irritated, swollen or bleeding gums could signify gum disease, either in its initial stages or in a more advanced stage. If left unchecked, these symptoms could lead to both bone and tooth loss down the line. 

Chronic Bad Breath 

Almost everyone experiences bad breath now and then due to various factors such as smoking, eating spicy food and drinking alcohol or coffee. However, if bad breath is a daily problem even after brushing and flossing, it's time to see your periodontist. 

Foul-smelling breath is caused by debris on the tongue and excessive harmful bacteria that have infected the gum tissue. 

Change in Your Bite/Alignment

Your upper and lower jaws' ability to align in a proper bite is an essential aspect of your dental health that is often unappreciated. A change in your bite, also known as malocclusion, can lead to increased dental problems such as pain, difficulty chewing, speech changes, and frequent biting of your inner cheeks and tongue. If you notice a change to your bite pattern or if your teeth feel weird when chewing, it is time to visit your periodontist. 

Tooth Sensitivity 

Tooth sensitivity can be defined as a shot of pain that occurs when you drink or eat something hot or cold or when you bite down. Dentin exposure caused by receding gums is the most common cause of painful tooth sensitivity. 

Extreme sensitivity indicates a problem and that it's time to see a periodontist. 

It is best to visit a reliable dentist at the slightest sign of discomfort. Sometimes, people show no visible symptoms of gum disease and can carry on for months or years without noticing that something is wrong. To avoid living with gum disease, make sure to go in for regular check-ups at a dental clinic specialising in periodontics.