What Are the Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Did you know that periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common causes of tooth loss among adults? Unfortunately, it develops quietly, so many patients don’t realize they have it until the damage is already underway. At High Street Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of the prevention, treatment, and management of periodontal disease to help keep your gums healthy and your teeth intact.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic, progressive condition involving inflammation and infection of the gums and the structures supporting your teeth. The first stage, known as gingivitis, typically develops due to poor oral hygiene. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to complications and damage to the structures that support your teeth. The result? Gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

In addition to impacting your smile, studies show a link between gum infection and inflammation and serious health concerns, including heart disease, stroke, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications.

What Are the Most Common Signs of Periodontal Disease?

One of the reasons periodontal disease often goes unnoticed is that it often develops with few noticeable symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular dental exams are so important.

The following are some of the most common signs of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding Gums: Gum bleeding when you brush or floss is often the first sign of inflammation.
• Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Gums that appear red or puffy or are tender to the touch are often a sign of infection.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Chronic bad breath, even with regular brushing and flossing, is often a warning sign of periodontal disease.
• Receding Gums: If your teeth look longer than they used to, or you can feel more tooth surface near the gumline, your gums may be pulling back or receding due to infection.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Gum recession exposes the root surfaces of teeth, often leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Loose or Shifting Teeth: As periodontal disease progresses, it can destroy the bone and ligaments that anchor your teeth, resulting in teeth feeling loose or shifting out of their normal positions.
• Changes in Bite Alignment: Beyond just “loose” teeth, you may notice your teeth fitting together differently when you close your mouth.
• Pain When Chewing: Discomfort during biting or chewing can indicate advanced gum infection requiring prompt care.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

If you have early-stage periodontal disease, known as gingivitis, more frequent professional cleanings combined with improved home oral hygiene practices can sometimes reverse the condition. For more advanced gum inflammation and infection, we may recommend scaling and root planing (SRP), a deep dental cleaning designed to remove bacteria from below the gumline and smooth your tooth root surfaces to discourage future buildup and encourage healing.

After treatment, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months. We will clean your teeth, evaluate your gum health, and intervene if needed to address any areas of concern. Our goal is always to keep your gums as healthy as possible and prevent the impacts of periodontal disease on your smile.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Near Me in Jefferson City, MO

If you notice any warning signs of periodontal disease, don’t wait. Contact High Street Dentistry for a prompt evaluation. Dr. Jones and his patient-centered team will recommend the ideal solution to restore your gum health and safeguard your long-term oral health. We invite you to call us at (573) 636-7432 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!