In the early stages, the signs of gum disease are hard to spot on your own. However, as the infection progresses, the symptoms become more noticeable and may require the help of a specialist to treat.
Even if you are already seeing another dentist, as a periodontist, we offer treatment options you may not be able to get at your general dentist’s office. Since we’re experts at not only treating gums, but also the whole structure that supports your tooth, we can handle the more advanced stages of gum disease right here in Lubbock, TX.
Signs You Need the Help of a Periodontal Specialist
Whether you have been referred to us by your general dentist or your gums simply need more care than your usual dentist provides, we’re the experts you need to restore your gum health. If you recognize any of these symptoms, you need help right away:
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
If you notice any blood on your toothbrush or floss or in the sink while practicing your regular oral hygiene routine, that is often one of the signs of a gum infection. This bleeding happens because of plaque that has built up in and around the gumline. While it could be an indication you are simply brushing or flossing too hard, if the problem persists, you’ll want to come in for a consultation.
- Red or inflamed gum tissue
The bacteria that causes periodontal disease can inflame your gum tissue so it looks bright red. It can also be sensitive to the touch. If ignored, it can result in deep pockets between your teeth and gums that can result in more complicated problems, such as loose teeth. Remember, your gums should be light pink, not red. So if the color of your gums has changed, schedule an appointment right away.
- Chronic bad breath
If you have bad breath that won’t go away with brushing or flossing, it’s more than just an embarrassing problem. It’s also a sign of gum disease. Pockets form around your tooth at your gumline when it’s been infected. They can hold bacteria and food that create a persistent odor. It’s usually one of the more advanced indications of an infection, so you’ll want to see us as soon as possible.
- Receding gumline
While it may not be noticeable at first, there are a few indications that your gum tissue is receding. For example, you may be more sensitive to hot and cold food or beverages all of a sudden. Also, if you look close enough at your teeth, you might see a small notch where the gums used to be and pulled away. Your teeth may look longer as well. Luckily, we can not only treat the infection, we can even restore your gumline too!
- Loose teeth
This is one of the more advanced signs of gum disease and one you definitely don’t want to ignore. When the infection has deepened the pockets around your tooth, it can actually loosen the hold your gums have on your teeth, causing them to wobble in place.
When you come to visit us with these signs, we’ll do everything we can to save your tooth and help you avoid an extraction.
Gum disease is hard to spot on your own, but even if you are just noticing early signs, you can visit us for help. Unlike most general dentists, we treat gum infections at all stages! Plus you can take advantage of our low-cost consultation fee of $50, which includes an examination, panoramic X-rays, and 3-D imaging of your mouth.
Call 806-507-6906 for an appointment or schedule online at High Plains Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in Lubbock, TX. Don’t ignore signs of gum disease when you can get the help of a specialist!