Do You Need a Periodontist? 5 Early Signs of Gum Disease Rockville Patients Shouldn’t Ignore
Gum disease often starts quietly, but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and more serious health issues. At Crown Dental Care, we offer expert periodontal services in Rockville, MD, designed to identify and treat gum issues before they become major problems. If you’re noticing any of the early symptoms below, it might be time to schedule an exam.
1. Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed when you brush or floss. If you’re seeing blood in the sink or noticing consistent redness or puffiness, that’s one of the first warning signs of gingivitis—the earliest stage of gum disease. This inflammation is your body’s way of responding to plaque buildup.
What to do: Don’t wait for it to go away on its own. A periodontal cleaning and early intervention from our team at Crown Dental Care can stop gingivitis from progressing.
2. Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, isn’t always caused by what you eat. It’s often a result of bacteria under the gumline. If mouthwash or brushing doesn’t fix it, it could be a deeper issue.
Why it matters: Bad breath caused by gum disease won’t resolve without treating the underlying infection.
3. Receding Gums or Teeth That Look Longer
If your teeth are starting to look longer or you’re noticing pockets forming between your teeth and gums, it could indicate gum recession. This often happens when the supporting tissue is damaged by ongoing inflammation.
The risk: Gum recession can expose tooth roots, leading to sensitivity and a higher risk of decay or tooth loss.
4. Tenderness, Pain, or Sensitivity
Discomfort while chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain near the gumline may all point to periodontal disease. While cavities are one cause of sensitivity, gum inflammation is another common culprit.
Don’t ignore it: Tender or painful gums can signal that the infection has reached deeper layers and needs professional attention.
5. Loose or Shifting Teeth
As gum disease progresses, it can weaken the tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. If your bite feels different or your teeth seem to move more than usual, it’s a red flag.
What it means: Advanced periodontal disease may be present, and without treatment, tooth loss becomes a serious risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
The earlier you catch gum disease, the easier it is to treat. Periodontal issues are progressive, meaning they worsen over time. Routine exams, cleanings, and gum evaluations are the best defense.
At Crown Dental Care, we specialize in treating early and advanced gum disease with personalized, non-surgical and surgical periodontal solutions.
Final Thoughts
Your gums are the foundation of your smile. Don’t ignore the signs. If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, it may be time to visit a periodontist.
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