Do You Have Periodontal Disease?

Is periodontal disease affecting you? Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection of the structures around the teeth. It's caused by dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms constantly on teeth. In advanced stages, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Led by dentist, Dr. Gary Wiest, Provo Dental, (located in Provo, UT) offers state-of-the-art treatments for gum disease. Here are 5 warning signs of gum disease.

1. Red Gums. Red gums could be a symptom of peridontal disease. Healthy gums should be pink, although they may contain other pigments depending on your ethnicity. Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red or purple. If you've noticed that your gums are red, don't ignore it. Ignoring the problem will only make matters worse.

2. Receding Gums. Gingival recession, or gum recession, is a sign that you've got periodontal disease. Gingival recession is exposure of the roots of the teeth due to a receding gum line. Other causes of gum recession include genetics, teeth grinding, tobacco use, and brushing aggressively. Treatment for gingival recession includes good oral hygiene and procedures to reshape the gums.

3. Swollen Gums. Swollen gums is a sign that you have gum disease. For many individuals with periodontal disease, this inflammation isn't painful. Other causes of gum inflammation include poorly fitting oral appliances, certain medications, and nutritional deficiencies. If the cause of your gum inflammation is periodontal disease, good oral oral hygiene is the first step to recovery in Provo, UT.

4. Bleeding Gums. If your gums bleed when you floss or brush your teeth, you may have periodontal disease. Don't ignore your bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are never normal, not even when you have your teeth cleaned by your dentist. The best way to find out what's causing your bleeding gums is to see your dental provider.

5. Bad Breath. Bad breath may also be a sign that you have gum disease. If you have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, see your dentist immediately. Finding out what's causing your bad breath puts you a step closer to getting rid of it. If periodontal disease is the culprit, breath mints won't help -- they're just temporarily covering up the problem.

If you want a healthy smile, call Eighth North Dental Center at (801) 374-8205 today to schedule a dental consultation in Provo, UT. You will experience exemplary service and state-of-the-art care at Provo Dental. A healthy smile and a happier you are well on their way!