4 Telltale Signs of Periodontal Disease

About half of the American population has one thing in common: problems with their gums. The National Institutes of Health report that more than 47% of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease (periodontal disease). After age 65, the number jumps to 60%. 

In other words, this is a widespread problem. It’s a serious one too. Unchecked gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and it’s linked to other health issues like respiratory and coronary artery disease. 

Fortunately, periodontal disease is reversible, and we can help. Whenever you notice the signs of gum disease, come see Gemini Master-Patel, DMD, and our team at Riverside Dental in Yonkers and Thornwood, New York. As an expert in periodontal disease, Dr. Master-Patel tailors treatment to you.

The sooner you visit us, the easier treatment generally will be. That means coming to see us as soon as you notice any telltale signs of a gum health problem. 

Signs of periodontal disease

Make an appointment with Dr. Master-Patel to evaluate your gum health and address any issues if you notice:

#1: Red, puffy gums

Inflammation in your gums is a sign that the bacteria in plaque is irritating your soft tissue. Gums that look redder than normal — sometimes even purplish — usually indicate you have some inflammation. They might also look swollen and puffy. 

#2: Gums that bleed when you floss

If you’re flossing regularly, your gums shouldn’t bleed when you do so.

It’s somewhat normal for your gums to bleed the first couple of times you floss after a hiatus from this oral care practice. But if you keep flossing and noticing blood, it’s time to talk to Dr. Master-Patel. 

#3: Bad breath

Periodontal disease is a leading cause of persistent bad breath. If you can’t get rid of the odor, you might be dealing with some level of gum disease. That’s particularly true if your bad breath is accompanied by a bad taste in your mouth. 

#4: Gum recession

If you notice your gumline moving downward, see Dr. Master-Patel as soon as possible. Gum recession is a clear indicator that you have a gum health problem and one that’s advanced fairly far. 

What to do about gum disease

If any of these signs of periodontal disease sound familiar, come see our team. We develop a plan to reverse your gum disease based on your specific mouth.

If you visit us early enough, that usually means a thorough dental cleaning paired with good at-home oral health habits. Once we remove the hardened plaque you can’t get off at home (tartar), you’re in good shape to keep your mouth clean with brushing and flossing. This allows your gums to start to heal and should reverse your periodontal disease.

If you let the issue progress, though, treating it is usually more involved. If your gums have started to detach from your teeth, for example, you’ll probably need scaling and root planing. This allows Dr. Master-Patel to clear bacteria from below your gum line and smooth your tooth root to encourage your gum to reattach. 

She may also recommend antibiotics to control any infection, pocket reduction surgery, or other treatments. 

In short, you have a lot of options to address periodontal disease. The sooner you do so, the easier it is. If you notice any of the warning signs of gum problems, don’t wait to call our Riverside Dental office nearest you or book your appointment online.