11 May Early Symptoms and Signs of Periodontal Disease
While Alicia Dental offers a great variety of services, we are the dentist Laguna Hills families trust for their cosmetic dentistry and oral health. Our number one priority is helping you maintain optimal health and a great smile. To better understand how we help our patients, let’s take a look at a common ailment that affects many: periodontal disease
Periodontal disease explained
Periodontal disease is often called gum disease. It is the result of plaque buildup and gingivitis working against your smile. Periodontitis starts as inflammation near the gum line. It is plaque and bacteria buildup that irritates the gums. In its infant stages, dentists refer to periodontal disease as gingivitis. In this stage, if the plaque stays on your teeth too long, it hardens into what is called tartar. Tartar requires additional scaling with our Laguna Hills dentist for removal.
Signs to watch for
Gingivitis and Gum Disease have similar symptoms. Generally speaking, the longevity and severity of the symptoms most likely point to periodontal disease, which is also called gum disease. Talk with our Laguna Hills dentist if you experience the following symptoms:
- Receding gumline
- Tooth sensitivity
- Bleeding gums
- Red gums
- Swollen gums
- Loose teeth
In early stages, many of these warning signs can be reversed. Brushing and flossing helps as does regular appointments with your dentist. Untreated gingivitis requires more advanced techniques in order to return your smile back to good health.
Call our Laguna Hills Dentist
If you have concerns about your smile or would like to learn more about gum disease, give us a call. Connect with us on Facebook for the latest in oral health topics and continue taking great care of your smile. We’re here to help you should you have questions about your smile.