Gum infection is a common oral issue affecting millions of people every year. It can start silently and progress, causing damage to teeth-supporting structures. This condition usually occurs due to poor oral hygiene. If good teeth cleaning practices are ignored, bacteria and food debris will build up along the gumline and turn into plaque. If not treated, tartar will form, causing gum irritation and inflammation.
The good news is that it is easy to treat gum disease before it reaches the advanced stages. This is why you should understand the early signs of gum infections. Here are the 3 common signs:
Bad Breath
Regular teeth brushing and professional teeth cleaning can help to reverse gingivitis. However, if not treated, oral bacteria can seep into the gum line, causing inflammation. This creates pockets that extend under the gum line. Over time, more bacteria will accumulate, causing a bad breath. At this stage, you may need deep dental cleaning to alleviate the symptoms of gum infection.
Receding Gums
At an advanced stage, the infection may start killing the gum tissues, making them pull away from the teeth. Are you wondering whether your gums are pulling away? A good way to tell if you have this condition is by looking at the appearance of your teeth. The affected tooth may look longer than usual. When this happens, the tooth's roots become exposed, leaving you vulnerable to decay. At this stage, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics and scaling and root planing to stop the infection from progressing. A gum graft may also be necessary to support the tooth's roots.
Loose Teeth
Advanced periodontitis can also affect the bone supporting the teeth. This causes the teeth to loosen, which can affect your bite. In this case, some procedures, such as bone and gum grafts, can help to restore the strength of the teeth. However, if these procedures cannot save the tooth, you may need to undergo tooth extraction. Talk to our professionals if you experience any sign of gum infection, and they will find an effective solution to restore your gum's health.