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Signs and Symptoms of Tooth and Gum Disease

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that 80 percent of adults in the United States experience tooth and gum disease. The condition is in large part due to insufficient oral care. Some factors put people at a greater risk for contracting the disease than others, including smoking or having a family history of the disease. Tooth and gum disease is treatable to prevent tooth loss.

  1. Gums

    • There are several warning signs to look for in the gum area. If your gums bleed after brushing your teeth, this is a symptom of tooth and gum disease. Normally, your gums should not bleed from brushing your teeth. Also, if your gums are constantly swollen, or are sensitive to heat or cold, these are also warning signals you have the disease. Red gums are a clear indicator of the disease as well.

    Teeth

    • Paying close attention to your teeth can help you diagnose gum or tooth disease. Check each tooth in your mouth to determine if any of them can be wiggled. The presence of loose teeth in your mouth indicates a high likelihood of the disease. If your teeth experience intense pain with hot or cold temperatures, this is another sign of tooth and gum disease. The disease can also make chewing food painful.

    Breath

    • Everyone has bad breath from time to time, usually from eating food with a strong odor. People who have gum disease have chronic bad breath that will not go away, even after brushing or using mouthwash. A breath mint may cover up the smell for a short time, but the bad breath will persist until the gum and tooth disease is treated.

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