Signs of Periodontal (Gum) Disease:

Periodontal disease affects virtually everyone at some point in their lives.  Therefore, I am going to discuss the signs one might have when dealing with periodontal disease.  The dental world has termed periodontal disease as the “silent killer” due to the fact that it is a disease that does not produce pain.  Periodontal/gum disease manifests itself under the gum tissue producing a chronic low-grade infection.  This chronic infection over time if not treated can lead to gum loss, halitosis, loose teeth, and tooth loss just to name a few.  Periodontal/gum disease is a condition that our Riverside Cosmetic Dental office takes very seriously which is why we recommend having treatment by our dental team as soon as possible.

Typical Signs of Periodontal (Gum Disease):

1. Periodontal Probing:  This procedure measures the “sulcus” rather the pocket surrounding the teeth.  As long as the measurements are below 3mm and there is no tissue loss or bleeding, then the tissue is considered healthy.  Pockets with bleeding, pocketing above 3mm and/or tissue loss present are in most cases considered having disease present.
2. Bleeding:  Bleeding from the gum (periodontal) tissue is considered unhealthy just like bleeding from any other part of the body.  Bleeding during flossing, brushing of teeth and dental cleanings are all warning signs that periodontal disease may be present.
3. Tissue Tone:  Tissue should appear pink in color and firm in texture.  Any type of red or blue irritated tissue is a warning that infection is present.   However, in some cases this inflammation could be caused from medications.
4. Malodor:  Any type of malodor or metallic taste is generally a sign that periodontal disease is present.
5. Tissue Loss:  Any type of tissue loss/recession is considered a sign for future periodontal problems.  Tissue loss caused by an improper bite is considered one of the most dangerous because this trauma can lead to bone loss and eventually tooth loss.
6. Bone Loss:  Bone levels are routinely evaluated at dental visits when x-rays are taken.  Bone loss cannot be remedied by our bodies, thus new bone has to be surgically placed in order to save the infected tooth (teeth.)

If you think you or someone you know may have one of these Signs of Periodontal Disease please call our Riverside Cosmetic Dental Office at (951)686-3666.