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Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease may not seem like a serious issue, but neglecting your gums can lead to serious conditions in the future, such as heart attack or stroke. According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), gum disease should be detected and treated as soon as possible. There are many warning signs that may indicate you have gum disease.

  1. Red and Swollen Gums

    • AAP has found that reddish and swollen gums are one of the most common symptoms and the earliest indicators of gum disease. The gums may not be particularly painful, but they will be bright red instead of pale pink.

    Bleeding

    • Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth or floss are a common sign of gum disease, according to AAP. This symptom is typically present in gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease.

    Gum Separation

    • Gums that begin to separate from the teeth are an indication of more advanced gum disease. This separation leads to further complications when the space between the gums and teeth becomes infected.

    Bad Breath

    • Bad breath can be caused by many factors, but gum disease may be the leading culprit. The FDA notes that gum disease causes an increase in the number of bacteria, which leads to bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.

    Loose Teeth

    • When gum disease is very advanced, it can result in teeth that are loose and need to be removed, according to the FDA. This occurs when the infection has become so severe that bacteria have eaten away at the tooth structure beneath the gums.

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