Gum disease in Brentwood, TN, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral condition affecting the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It begins with bacterial growth in the patient's mouth and, if not promptly and effectively treated, could lead to tooth loss due to the destruction of the tissue that surrounds the teeth. There are a number of reasons why people will know they have gum disease.

Curious to know about the specific reasons why people will know they have gum disease? Continue reading to learn more about how people know they have gum disease.

How You Will Know You Have Gum Disease In Brentwood, TN

There are a number of ways people will know they have gum disease. The following are the specific ways people will know they have gum disease:

Tooth Brushing Causes Gums To Bleed:

When people’s gums bleed during or after they brush their teeth, it is a sign that they have gum disease. Healthy gums usually don't bleed during regular brushing and flossing. Having bleeding gums after brushing teeth indicates that the gums are inflamed or infected.

Have Red, Swollen Gums:

Having red, swollen gums is an indicator of gum disease. Normally, healthy gums are firm and pink. Specifically, red, puffy or swollen gums is a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. This inflammation is often caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth, which harbors harmful bacteria. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe forms of gum disease, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Persistent Bad Breath Or Taste In The Mouth:

Having persistent bad breath or a constant bad taste in the mouth is be an indicator of gum disease. This unpleasant condition is often caused by the accumulation of plaque on the teeth, which has harmful bacteria. These bacteria produce toxins that cause bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth, serving as a warning sign of possible gum disease.

Receding Gums:

Having receding gums is an indicator of gum disease. Under normal circumstances, the gums form a tight seal around the teeth, providing a defense against harmful bacteria. However, when people have gum disease, this seal begins to weaken, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth. This process, known as gum recession, exposes more of the tooth and can even reveal the tooth's root.

This exposure not only creates spaces for additional bacteria to gather and multiply, but it also increases the sensitivity of teeth to heat and cold, possibly causing discomfort while people are eating and drinking. When people notice that their teeth appear longer than usual, it is an indicator that they have receding gums and, consequently, gum disease.

Have Deep Pockets Between Teeth And Gums:

The formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums is an indicator of gum disease. Normally, there should be a shallow, relatively small space (or 'pocket') between teeth and gums.

However, with the progression of gum disease, these pockets become deeper as the gums pull away from the teeth, creating more space for harmful bacteria to multiply. This deepening of the pockets can lead to further gum and bone degradation and, if left untreated, eventual tooth loss.

Have Loose Or Shifting Teeth:

Having loose or shifting teeth is an indicator of gum disease. Normally, teeth are firmly anchored in the jawbone and do not move or shift. However, in the case of advanced gum disease, the supporting structure of the teeth, which includes the gums and jawbone, starts to degrade. This process can lead to teeth becoming loose or shifting out of place. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Changes In The Way Teeth Fit Together:

Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down is an indicator of gum disease. Under normal circumstances, people's teeth should align and fit together comfortably when they close their mouth or chew. This is known as their 'bite'.

However, with the progression of gum disease, the supporting structures of the teeth – which includes the gums and the bone – begin to deteriorate. This breakdown can lead to changes in the way the teeth (or dentures) fit together, creating an uncomfortable or 'off' bite.

Come To Our Office So We Can Determine If You Have Gum Disease In Brentwood, TN

Unsure if you have gum disease? When you come to our skilled and trusted office, we can expertly determine if you have gum disease.

Don't wait to improve your smile with us. Get in contact with our doctors, Dr. Bill Akin, and our exceptional team at our dental office to schedule an appointment today!