Blog

Your gums play a crucial role in your oral health, yet they’re often overlooked. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. At Smiles Above The Rest, Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt provide expert gum care to patients in Republic & Buffalo, MO, helping them maintain healthy smiles for life.

Gum disease often starts with mild symptoms, but if ignored, it can progress to tooth loss, infections, and even impact your overall health. In this article, we’ll explore the key signs of gum disease you should never ignore and what you can do to prevent and treat it.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that support the teeth. It develops in two main stages:

1. Gingivitis – The early stage, which is reversible with proper care.
2. Periodontitis – The advanced stage, which can cause permanent damage to the gums and bone.

Many people don’t realize they have gum disease until it has already progressed. That’s why recognizing the warning signs is essential for early intervention.

Signs of Gum Disease You Should Never Ignore

1. Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when you brush, floss, or eat, this is one of the earliest signs of gum disease. Healthy gums should not bleed with normal oral care. Bleeding gums indicate inflammation and irritation, which, if left untreated, can progress to a more serious infection.
2. Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis): Chronic bad breath isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be a sign of gum disease. When bacteria build up beneath the gum line, they produce toxins that cause foul odors. If brushing, flossing, and mouthwash don’t fix the problem, you may have underlying gum issues.
3. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. If your gums appear red, puffy, or tender, this suggests inflammation due to plaque buildup. Swollen gums often mean your body is trying to fight off an infection.
4. Receding Gums: If your gums appear to be pulling away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s surface or root, this is a sign of gum recession. Receding gums make teeth look longer and increase sensitivity. Gum recession is often linked to advanced gum disease and may require professional treatment.
5. Loose or Shifting Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it damages the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place. If your teeth feel loose, shift, or develop new spaces between them, this is a serious warning sign of advanced periodontitis. Without treatment, tooth loss can occur.
6. Pain While Chewing: If you experience discomfort or pain when chewing, it could be due to gum inflammation, infection, or weakened tooth support. Pain while eating is a late-stage symptom and should be addressed immediately by a dentist.
7. Pus Between Teeth and Gums: Pus or a bad taste in your mouth can be a sign of an infection or abscess caused by severe gum disease. This requires urgent dental treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
8. Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Gum recession exposes the tooth roots, which lack protective enamel. This can cause increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. While sensitivity can have multiple causes, gum disease is a common culprit.
9. Changes in Your Bite or Denture Fit: If you notice a change in how your teeth fit together or your dentures no longer fit comfortably, this may indicate gum and bone loss due to periodontitis. These changes can make chewing and speaking more difficult.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque buildup, but several factors increase your risk, including:

• Poor Oral Hygiene – Not brushing and flossing properly allows plaque to harden into tartar, which leads to gum disease.
• Smoking & Tobacco Use – Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for gums to heal.
• Diabetes – High blood sugar levels can increase the risk of gum infections.
• Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can make gums more sensitive and prone to disease.
• Genetics – Some people are naturally more prone to gum disease.
• Poor Diet – A lack of essential nutrients weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria buildup.

2. Get Regular Dental Checkups: Visit Smiles Above The Rest for a professional dental cleaning and exam every six months. Our dentists, Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt, will assess your gum health and recommend treatments if needed.

3. Quit Smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of gum disease but also slows down healing after treatment. Quitting can significantly improve your oral and overall health.

4. Eat a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin D, and calcium help support strong teeth and gums. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that promote plaque growth.

5. Consider Advanced Treatments for Gum Disease: If you already have gum disease, professional treatments may include:

• Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Removes tartar and bacteria beneath the gum line.
• Antibiotic Therapy: Helps fight bacterial infections in the gums.
• Surgical Procedures: In severe cases, gum grafts or bone regeneration may be necessary.

When to See a Dentist

If you notice any of the warning signs of gum disease, don’t wait! The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of reversing or controlling the condition.

At Smiles Above The Rest, our experienced dentists, Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt, provide expert gum disease treatment for patients in Republic & Buffalo, MO. We are committed to helping you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile for life.

Schedule Your Gum Health Check Today!

Ignoring gum disease can lead to serious dental and overall health problems. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, schedule an appointment with Smiles Above The Rest today! Let us help you protect your gums, teeth, and overall well-being!