There’s no substitute for your natural teeth! Even the best dental appliances are still just replacements, and preserving your natural teeth is crucial to long-term oral health. Preventing tooth loss and maintaining healthy gums are primary goals at Desert Pearl Dentistry. One key strategy to ensure the longevity of your teeth is to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis, more commonly known as gum disease.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms on your teeth daily. While plaque is removed with brushing and flossing, it quickly reforms within hours. If left untreated, plaque turns into tartar, a hard substance that creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth for extended periods, your gums become irritated and inflamed, a condition called gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, pockets can form between your gums and teeth, collecting more plaque, tartar, and bacteria. As the infection deepens, it develops into periodontitis, where tissue and bone begin to deteriorate. If untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
Indications and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Some individuals may have gum disease without showing obvious symptoms. However, keep an eye out for these signs:
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Bleeding gums: If your gums bleed when brushing, it’s a sign of gum disease.
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Bad breath: Plaque buildup between the teeth and gums can cause persistent bad breath (halitosis).
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Red or swollen gums: Inflamed gums are a key early sign of gum disease. Healthy gums should be light pink, not red.
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Receding gums: If your teeth appear more exposed, it’s due to gradual gum recession caused by gum disease.
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Sensitivity: Exposed tooth roots from receding gums may lead to sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
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Periodontal abscess: A pocket of pus may form, causing discomfort and swelling.
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Loose teeth: Advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, causes bone loss, which can lead to loose or shifting teeth.
Recommended Action
Home remedies, like oil pulling, are not enough to cure gum disease. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to consult your dentist immediately. Delaying treatment can result in permanent damage to your teeth and gums.
Contact Desert Pearl Dentistry
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, contact Desert Pearl Dentistry today in Rancho Mirage, CA. We’ll gladly schedule an appointment to help prevent the progression of gum disease and save your teeth and gums!
