Gum Disease: Key Signs, Symptoms, Home Treatment

Symptoms

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) causes:

• Red, swollen, tender gums.
• Gums that bleed easily when brushed or flossed. Healthy gums do not bleed with regular brushing and flossing.
Because gingivitis usually isn't painful, you may not notice the symptoms and may not get the treatment you need. If you don't get treated, the disease will progress.

Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) causes more noticeable symptoms, such as:

• Gums that pull away or recede from the teeth.
• Persistent bad breath.
• Pus coming from the gums.
• A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite, or a change in the fit of partial dentures.
• Loose teeth.

If you use tobacco you have a higher risk of gum disease. Your gums may actually bleed less, even though they are unhealthy, and you may not realize it's a problem until its too late. If you use tobacco, you will need to see your dentist more often.

Home Treatment
If your gums are mildly swollen and red, flossing every day and brushing your teeth in the morning and before bedtime can help reverse these symptoms of gum disease. For more information on how to care for your teeth, see:

Dental care: Brushing and flossing your teeth.

The following steps can also help to reverse or prevent gum disease:

• Use a tartar-control toothpaste that contains fluoride.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash, such as Listerine, or an antiplaque mouthwash.
• Chew sugar-free gum after meals if you are unable to brush your teeth.
• Carefully use a toothpick after meals if you are unable to brush your teeth right away.

If you smoke or use spit tobacco, the best thing you can do for yourself is to quit. Tobacco decreases your ability to fight infection and delays healing. Tobacco users are more likely than nonsmokers to have serious gum disease that leads to tooth loss and that doesn't respond as well to treatment. Quitting is difficult, but many people find success through a combination of medicine, a stop-smoking program, and counseling.

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Also Read:
* Fromage Frais Helpful In Bones And Teeth Health

* Top tips to prevent dry mouth

* Bleeding Gums: Effective Home Treatment

* Electric toothbrushes best for fighting gum disease