How Can I Tell If I Have Gum Disease?

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the main diseases that affect our gums. Timely prevention of these complications is key to avoiding symptoms such as gum bleeding, gingival inflammation or what’s even worse, tooth loss.

But, how can you know if you have gingivitis or periodontitis?

Here are some useful tips from your Santa Clarita dentist:

The first step is knowing how to differentiate gingivitis from periodontitis. They are also known as periodontal diseases, as they affect the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth. Although they have the same origin, their symptoms and consequences are different.

Periodontal disease involves different phases:

Gingivitis: It is the first stage of periodontal disease. It involves inflammation and redness of the gums, which will bleed very easily during brushing. Gingivitis is reversible, but it is very important to know how to identify its symptoms on time.
Periodontitis: It is the consequence of poorly treated or undiagnosed gingivitis. The infection has already reached the bone and tissues that support the teeth, which will suffer irreversible damage. A periodontal bag is formed, and it can cause tooth loss. At this stage of periodontal disease, treatments such as endodontics, which slow down these effects, can be performed.
Advanced periodontitis: This is the last stage of periodontal disease in which the damage is usually irreversible and the tooth is lost. In these cases, the most indicated thing to do is exodontics.

How to avoid gingivitis and periodontitis?

It is very important to schedule a dental checkup with your Santa Clarita dentist if you encounter any of these symptoms:

Red, swollen gums.
Dental sensitivity that persists over time.
Gingival Retraction
Bleeding gums
Constant bad breath

After visiting our Santa Clarita dentist and finishing your treatment, it is also advisable to follow a series of oral care habits:

Oral Care Routine

Following good oral cleaning habits on a daily basis is essential to prevent periodontal diseases. That is, brushing your teeth after each meal and complementing brushing with other techniques such as flossing and rinsing with mouthwash.

Healthy food

Following a healthy diet is also important for your oral health. The foods we eat influence the state of our teeth and gums. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sugary and acidic foods, since they favor the accumulation of oral biofilm which is the main factor in the development of periodontal diseases.

Visit your Santa Clarita Dentist regularly

Some symptoms of periodontal diseases are not visible to the naked eye. Therefore, it is advisable to visit our dental practice frequently. We also recommend you have a professional dental cleaning every six months.

So, what are you waiting for? Schedule an appointment with your Santa Clarita dentist today! (661) 260-1220

Location: 24242 Lyons Avenue Santa Clarita, CA 91321