Telltale Signs of Periodontal Disease

Did you know nearly half of people 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease? Unfortunately, these rates only increase with age, and approximately 70% of those 65 and older have a problem.

Dr. Peter Gambertoglio brings his expertise in comprehensive family and cosmetic dental services to the community of Spring, Texas. In his more than 30 years as a dentist, Dr. Gambertoglio has seen periodontal disease in all of its stages, including tooth loss.

If you notice any of these signs of periodontal disease, don’t wait — schedule an appointment so you can get treatment as quickly as possible.

The risks that come with periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is also called gum disease. This serious dental condition describes a bacterial infection in the gums. Without treatment, it can lead to bone and tooth damage, and even tooth loss.

Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it starts with gingivitis — or gum inflammation — and worsens over time. As you might imagine, the more advanced your condition, the more involved the treatment and risk for tooth loss.

To avoid serious complications, it’s essential to get dental care as soon as you notice any signs of periodontal disease.

Common signs of periodontal disease

Gum disease symptoms vary depending on the severity of your condition. In fact, in the earliest stages, you may not detect the signs of a problem at all, until you’re in your dentist’s chair. However, as your gum infection worsens, it typically causes telltale signs of a problem, such as:

• Tender, swollen, or red gums
• Gums that bleed when flossing or brushing
• Tartar or plaque buildup
• Receding gums
• Loose, shifting, or sensitive teeth
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Chronic bad breath
• Pain while chewing

In addition to these symptoms in your mouth, periodontal disease can also cause a systemic inflammatory response. That means you can develop other health problems, like rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory disease, high blood sugar, and coronary artery disease.

Preventing and treating periodontal disease

Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of periodontal disease. And, if you already have a problem, Dr. Gambertoglio can help.

First, it’s crucial to clean your mouth every day by brushing and flossing. While it’s tempting to skip this daily chore, it’s the best way to remove bacteria from your mouth. Otherwise, it can build up on your teeth and gums, putting you at risk of gum disease.

Next, don’t forget to schedule regular professional cleanings. Not only do these dental visits help remove plaque and tartar buildup before it becomes a problem, but Dr. Gambertoglio can also spot the signs of periodontal disease and address them as early as possible.

Finally, never ignore the symptoms of periodontal disease. Dr. Gambertoglio offers numerous treatments, depending on the severity of your infection. Less advanced cases of gum disease often respond to antibiotics and thorough cleanings, like scaling and root planing. However, more advanced infections can require surgical treatments or even full mouth reconstruction.

Are you worried you have gum disease? Don’t wait to get dental care. Schedule an appointment with Peter Gambertoglio, DDS, by calling 281-350-8852 today.