Gum disease can ravage the mouth, leaving few teeth remaining and destroying many of the mouth’s teeth-supporting tissues. However, many people who have gum disease do not realize that they have it, allowing the disease to progress and cause damage without intervention from a dental professional. Thus, it is very important to attend regular dental checkups, which allow dental professionals to inspect the mouth and the gums for a variety of potentially damaging problems. It is also important to be familiar with the gum disease’s symptoms and what causes it to develop.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Oftentimes, unhealthy gums will be swollen and tender. Other times, they may be discolored and bleed easily. Take a look at the following list of symptoms. Any one of them can indicate gum disease, so if you notice these symptoms seek dental care from your Las Vegas dentist, Dr. Staten.

• Shifting teeth
• Loose teeth
• Bleeding gums
• Puffy or swollen gums
• Discolored gums
• Pockets between the teeth and gums

The Progression of Gum Disease

Gum disease often begins as a slight inflammation of the gums. However, this inflammation, called gingivitis, may progress rather quickly into periodontitis, a form of gum disease that attacks the supporting tissues and ligaments of teeth. As these tissues and ligaments are damaged, teeth may begin to shift or fall out altogether. At the same time, pockets may develop between the teeth and gums. These pockets are typically filled with bacteria that must be removed in order to improve oral health. Eventually, gum surgery may be necessary to remove bacteria and reattach the gums to the teeth.

Being Proactive

However, before gum surgery becomes necessary, there are several things you can do to maintain healthy gums. First of all, be sure that you brush and floss your teeth thoroughly and consistently to remove bacteria from teeth and the gums. Second, attend regular dental visits with your dentist. Be sure to mention any troublesome symptoms like swollen or bleeding gums during your visit and listen to any recommendations Dr. Staten may have about improving your homecare.

Schedule a Visit with Your Las Vegas Dentist

If you have frequently bleeding gums, you may have developed gum disease. Contact Dr. Staten today by calling our office at 702-736-7979.