With more than 50% of American adults suffering from periodontal disease according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is a serious health concern for many.
Signs of Early Gum Disease
You may not realize that the signs of early gum disease can be subtle, so staying tuned in to your body and changes in your health is essential.
Periodontal disease is an infection in your gum tissue surrounding your teeth. Early signs include discomfort, inflammation, and bleeding when you brush or floss. Your teeth may bleed if something is lodged in your gums, such as a popcorn hull, but those instances are localized and will clear up once the foreign object is removed. Widespread or persistent bleeding can be an early sign of gum disease.
If you brush your teeth and floss regularly, you should not experience pain or bleeding due to regular cleaning.
Get Gum Disease Treatment at our Fayetteville Dental Office
If bleeding persists or is accompanied by bad bread, pus, or sensitivity, you should make an appointment with your dentist right away. We can determine the cause of your discomfort and help you get back on track to good oral health.
At Scott J. Stephens, DDS we perform a complete periodontal evaluation on all of our adult patients. We offer customized dental cleanings ranging from routine to periodontal dental cleanings, depending on what you require.
Even if you have had excellent oral health in the past, hormonal changes, medications, lifestyle changes, and drug use can cause changes to the health of your gums. It is common, especially, for pregnant women to experience pregnancy gingivitis. Since your oral health can affect the health of your unborn child, keeping your gums free from infection is essential.
If you would like to learn more about periodontics in the Fayetteville, AR area, contact our dental office to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a happy, healthy smile.