How Can Your Dentist Tell You Have Gingivitis?

Sticking to a regular schedule of dental checkups and cleanings is important for many different reasons, and comprehensive examinations are a significant one. During your exam, your dentist can look for signs of trouble that you can’t see on your own, which gives you the chance to address troublesome dental issues before they become serious. For instance, you may not immediately know that you have gingivitis—the first stage of gum disease—but your dentist can tell by spotting signs that you may overlook at home.

What Your Dentist Sees

When you check your teeth and gums in the mirror, there are some things that might be immediately obvious. If your teeth are stained or your gums are bleeding, then you might notice it without help. However, the earliest signs of dental issues are often more discreet. For example, when gingivitis first develops, the redness in your gums or the recession of your gum tissues may occur in areas that you can’t see, such as behind your teeth or in the back of your mouth. Your dentist can use a combination of visual inspection and digital imaging equipment to keep track of such changes and gauge whether or not you should receive treatment to avoid more serious concerns.

Why You Should Address It Immediately

Like most dental issues, gingivitis grows worse the longer it’s left unattended. By the time you notice symptoms yourself, the disease may have progressed enough to cause significant damage to your gums and periodontal tissues. The more severe your gum disease is, the more extensive treatment you’ll need to address it, which is why early diagnosis and treatment are the best options for protecting your smile.

Learn More About Gingivitis Treatment

If your dentist sees signs of gingivitis during your routine dental exam, then you should follow his instructions for treating it as soon as possible to protect your smile. 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.