How Obvious Is Gum Disease?

Once you know that you have gum disease, your dentist can likely help you control it and avoid the potentially serious consequences of it (such as tooth loss). However, unlike some other dental issues, gum disease isn’t always obvious. In fact, most patients don’t realize they have it until their dentist detects signs of the disease during a routine dental examination. The fact that you might not immediately recognize its presence is one of the reasons why gum disease affects a majority of adults in the U.S. This makes regular checkup and cleaning appointments with your dentist even more important for the long-term health of your smile.

What Gum Disease Means

Gum disease is a chronic dental health condition that affects the gums and periodontal tissues that support the roots of your teeth. At first, gum disease’s earliest stage (known as gingivitis) involves oral bacteria working their way underneath your gum tissues, causing them to separate from your teeth roots. As more oral bacteria gather in these periodontal pockets, gingivitis can quickly progress into more severe gum disease, becoming a greater risk to your oral health.

What Gum Disease Looks Like

As gingivitis and gum disease destroy your gum tissues, you may notice discreet signs such as redness or slight swelling in your gums. You might also see small amounts of blood in your saliva when you brush and floss your teeth. While the early development of gum disease may go unnoticed at home, your dentist can detect signs that you may not be able to notice. Even if you don’t see any of these symptoms, be sure to maintain a regular schedule of checkup and cleaning appointments to give your dentist a good chance at catching it early.

Find Out if You Have Gum Disease

The truth is that gum disease isn’t always obvious until it causes severe damage to your gums and oral structures. To learn more, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza in Tucson, AZ, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.