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Brushing your teeth and flossing every night is more than a way to keep your breath clean and fresh: it's a must if you want to avoid serious dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease.

Gum disease, or gingivitis, is an infection of the periodontal tissue that happens when you fail to maintain good oral hygiene. It can have some serious consequences for your oral health if it goes unnoticed. Here are some potential signs to look out for and how receiving treatment from a family dentistry in Bridgeport can help.

5 Signs of Gum Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

1. Bleeding Gums

Have you brushed or flossed and noticed blood in the sink or your toothbrush? Although occasional gum bleeding may not seem serious, it is frequently an early indicator of gingivitis.

Gums in good health should not bleed readily. Bleeding may be a sign of irritation, inflammation, or even the onset of gingivitis. To address this, make sure you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss every day. See your dentist right away if the bleeding continues or gets worse.

2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

Healthy gums are pale pink and firm. If yours are red, swollen, or tender, this is a clear indication of irritation or infection. This inflammation is typically caused by plaque and bacterial buildup along the gumline. You may also experience discomfort while eating, brushing, or flossing.

If left untreated, it can progress to more serious gum disease, such as periodontitis, resulting in permanent damage.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Everybody gets bad breath from time to time, but persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth could indicate gum disease. Regular mouthwash and brushing are insufficient to eliminate the odors caused by bacteria trapped beneath the gumline.

If left untreated, the unpleasant odor frequently only worsens over time, affecting your social interactions and self-esteem.

4. Receding Gums

Do your teeth appear longer now than they did before? Once you’ve reached adulthood, teeth don’t grow, but gums can recede.

Gum recession can reveal your tooth roots, making them more vulnerable to decay and altering the appearance of your smile. This problem, which frequently begins quietly, can be brought on by aggressive brushing, gum disease, or bad habits like grinding your teeth.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Gum disease can harm the tissues and bone that support your teeth as it progresses. This may result in teeth that are shifting or loose, which is a major red flag. See a dentist right away if you observe any changes in your bite, gaps appearing between teeth, or a sensation that your teeth are moving. If left untreated, advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, can lead to tooth loss.

Find a Periodontal Family Dentistry in Bridgeport

Nowadays, most patients understand how important it is to take care of their teeth, but periodontal health can be easily overlooked. Your gums play a role just as fundamental in maintaining the delicate balance of your mouth.

Moreover, gum tissue doesn’t grow back, so if you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to visit Brooklawn Dental Associates right away. We have various treatment options to help restore your smile, so reach out!