Your gums do more than just hold your teeth in place. They help keep your smile healthy by protecting your bones and tissues. But what happens when your gums start to get sick? Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is among the most common dental problems adults face. If you find out early, it can be stopped from becoming worse.
Let me share what you need to watch for and when you should see a dentist near you for help.
What Exactly Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film full of bacteria. If you don’t brush and floss it, the plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar bacteria lead to inflammation of your gums that can become infected. The early stage is called gingivitis. Periodontal problems can escalate to a much more serious gum disease known as periodontitis. In many cases, you will need the help of a periodontist in Edmonton to prevent damage to the bone supporting your teeth.
Common Warning Signs to Watch For
Here are the signs that your gums might be in trouble
Bleeding Gums.
Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush or floss. Seeing blood on a regular basis means your gums are trying to tell you something is wrong. This is often the first sign of gingivitis.
Red or Swollen Gums.
Normal gums look pink and firm. If they’re red, puffy, or sensitive to the touch, they may have started inflaming.
Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away.
Sometimes, all of us have bad breath, but if yours lingers even after brushing, bacteria may be occupying space underneath your gum line.
Receding Gums.
Gum recession occurs when your gums pull back away from your teeth. This makes your teeth look longer than they are. This reveals the roots of teeth, leading to the formation of pockets where bacteria can hide.
Loose Teeth.
If you notice any looseness or shifting with your teeth, it could indicate bone damage. This is a serious sign that needs immediate attention.
Pus Between Teeth and Gums.
Any pus or discharge is a clear sign of infection. Don’t ignore this symptom.
Pain When Chewing.
If it hurts when you eat your favourite food, then your gums or the bone beneath it may be infected.
Understanding the Stages of Gum Disease
| Stage | Name | Symptoms | Treatment |
| Early | Gingivitis | Bleeding, red gums | Professional cleaning, better home care |
| Moderate | Periodontitis | Receding gums, pockets forming | Deep cleaning, scaling and root planing |
| Advanced | Severe Periodontitis | Loose teeth, bone loss | Surgery, dental implant, periodontist consultation |
When to See a Periodontist
You might wonder when to see a regular dentist versus when to see a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease and placing dental implants. You should schedule an appointment if you notice
- Gums that bleed often
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Teeth that feel loose
- Chronic bad breath
- Pain in your gums that doesn’t go away
- Previous diagnosis of gum disease
Your general dentist near you can refer you to a periodontist if needed. But you can also call a periodontist directly if you’re concerned about your gum health.
Prevention Is Your Best Defence
The best way to fight gum disease is to prevent it. Here’s what you should do.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use floss daily to remove the food and plaque between your teeth. Go to your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Avoid smoking, which makes gum disease worse.
What Happens If You Ignore the Signs?
Untreated gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth. The research suggests that it is linked to other conditions, such as heart disease. In severe conditions, you may lose teeth and have to get treated by a dental implant periodontist.
Stop Gum Problems Before They Spread
At Whyte Ave Dental Choice, we help keep your gums healthy and strong. Our dentists have the experience to identify gum disease, remove problems, and give treatment to prevent problems. Our methods are safe as well as effective in ensuring the protection of your teeth and gums. Do not wait until it’s too late. Schedule your appointment now!
