Signs That You May Have Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease can have a devastating effect on your smile if it isn't treated promptly. Your Narbeth, PA, dentists, Drs. Ernest Dellheim, David Block, and Sheena Hauser of Markowitz & Dellheim diagnose and treat this condition, commonly called gum disease. These six signs and symptoms occur if you have periodontal disease.

Your gums bleed easily

Have you noticed that your toothbrush looks pink after you brush your teeth? Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease. Bleeding after you brush or floss is never normal and shouldn't be ignored.

You've noticed a few gum changes

Red, swollen, and tender gums are a common sign of periodontal disease. If you look in the mirror and notice that your gums are red and puffy, call the Narberth, PA, dental office and schedule an appointment. As the disease worsens, your gums begin to recede, exposing your sensitive tooth roots.

Mouthwash and mints don't improve your bad breath

If nothing you do improves your bad breath, periodontal disease may be to blame. The problem is caused by the bacteria in your mouth. Once the disease is successfully treated, your breath will improve.

Eating has become painful

Chewing can irritate your swollen, inflamed gums, making eating an unpleasant experience. If you have receding gums, you may experience pain after you consume hot, cold, or sugary beverages. The pain may last as long as 30 minutes after you eat or drink.

Your gums have pulled away from your teeth

Do you have spaces between your gums and your teeth? Called "pockets," these spaces fill with debris and bacteria. Pockets form when you have severe gum disease and are very painful. Not surprisingly, your bad breath tends to become even worse at this stage.

Your dentures don't fit well or your teeth are loose

Did you know that you can develop periodontal disease even if you don't have any teeth? In fact, loose dentures are a sign of the disease. As the periodontal disease worsens, bacteria not only attacks your gum tissue but also damages or destroys the bones and ligaments that hold your teeth in place. Your teeth may loosen and even fall out if you ignore these serious signs.

Schedule an appointment today

Lower your risk of periodontal disease with regular checkups! Call your dentists in Narberth, PA, Drs. Dellheim, David Block, and Sheena Hauser of Markowitz & Dellheim, at (610) 664-6061 to schedule your appointment.