8 Signs That You Should Visit A Periodontist: Taking Charge Of Your Gum Health

Oral hygiene is essential for general health, and it extends beyond brushing and flossing. Your gums play an important part in tooth support, and any indicators of gum disease should not be overlooked. 

Periodontists are dentists who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases and disorders. In this article, we will explore eight signs that indicate it's time to schedule a visit to a periodontist and safeguard your gum health.

1. Persistent gum bleeding

Bleeding gums are one of the earliest indicators of gum disease, especially during brushing or flossing. If you observe this recurring problem, don't disregard it as normal. Bleeding gums can suggest the presence of gingivitis or gum inflammation, or infection. A periodontist can evaluate the severity of the problem and suggest treatment to keep it from advancing to periodontitis, a more severe stage of gum disease.

2. Chronic bad breath

Bad breath that persists despite good dental hygiene might be an indication of gum disease. Bad breath, often known as halitosis, is frequently caused by the buildup of bacteria in pockets that grow between the gums and teeth as gum disease worsens. A periodontist may determine the underlying cause of persistent bad breath and provide a customized treatment plan to address the problem.

3. Receding gums

Receding gums are caused by gum tissue pulling away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. This not only ruins the beauty of your smile, but it additionally raises dental sensitivity and increases the risk of tooth decay. If you find that your teeth are getting longer or that your gums are receding, you should contact a periodontist as soon as possible. They may identify the underlying cause of gum recession and provide treatment alternatives like gum grafting to restore gum health and preserve your teeth.

4. Loose or shifting teeth

Gum disease can deteriorate the supporting structures that keep your teeth in place. If you have loose teeth, see your bite changing, or find your teeth shifting, you may have severe gum disease. In such cases, seeking the advice of a periodontist is critical because they can assess the severity of gum disease and propose treatment options such as scaling and root planing or gum surgery to help stabilize and save your teeth.

5. Gum swelling and redness

Healthy gums should be light pink in color and firm in texture. If your gums are red, puffy, or sensitive, this is a symptom of inflammation and might be a sign of gum disease. Swollen gums are sometimes accompanied by pain or tenderness. A visit to a periodontist will allow for a thorough evaluation as well as a quick treatment to avoid future damage and encourage gum healing.

6. Difficulty chewing or biting

Gum disease can damage the tissues that support your teeth, making it difficult to chew or bite comfortably. If you have pain or discomfort when eating, it might be caused by gum disease, which is weakening the underlying structure of your teeth. A periodontist will examine your gums, teeth, and jawbone to determine the best course of action to relieve pain and restore normal function.

7. Pus formation

The pus, a thick, yellowish fluid, between your teeth and gums is obviously evidence of a bacterial infection in the gum pockets. This condition needs immediate attention from a periodontist. Pus formation manifests advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, which can have severe outcomes such as tooth loss. Professional intervention and periodontal treatment are required to arrest the infection's progression and restore oral health.

8. Family history of gum disease

If gum disease runs in your family, it's critical to take charge of your gum health. People can be predisposed to gum disease genetically, making them more likely to develop it even with the right dental hygiene habits. If you have a family history of gum disease, you should see a periodontist on a regular basis for full assessments and preventative therapy. They can closely monitor your gum health, manage the disease early if required, and provide individualized advice on maintaining suitable dental hygiene.