You have likely already heard of gum disease, and if you have then you know that it’s an infection of the tissues around the teeth. It’s not a particularly pleasant thing to have to deal with, mostly because of the pain and the overall effect it can have on your teeth and your overall health. Gum disease is largely caused by plaque, so if you don’t take care of the plaque on your teeth, you might end up dealing with the ill effects of it.
Plaque can build up along the base of the teeth, but it can also go under the gum line and cause you pain and discomfort as it breaks down the bones supporting your teeth. It’s vital that you look to see a dentist book online if you have to. There are things that you should know to recognise the signs that your gums are in need of help, and we have some of those for you below:
- Your gums are swollen and red. Your gums should be firm and pink, not red, purple or puffy. If your gums are swollen and sore, it’s not natural and you need to get your dentist to look at them. Plaque and tartar staying on the teeth shouldn’t be an option for you, and any pressure on them can make them bleed easily. If the swelling lasts for more than one or two days, see a dentist and have a hygienist work on your teeth and gums to keep them clean.
- They’re starting to recede. You may have heard the phrase ‘long in the tooth’ and if that’s the case for you, then you should think about whether or not your gums need some attention. If your gums are receding and shrinking back, it’s going to take time to notice. It means that the gums are pulling away from the teeth and it’s not okay! It’s going to make your teeth painful and more sensitive.
- Your teeth feel sore when you eat. When you eat cold or hot foods, it shouldn’t make your teeth feel shocked in pain. Sensitive teeth aren’t always nice and when you feel pain when your gums are touched, it can be a warning sign to improve your teeth.
- Your breath needs work. Did you know that bad breath is caused by plaque not being properly removed from the mouth? If plaque is freely growing and staying beneath the gum line, it’s going to cause bad breath and it’s not going to be pleasant!
- Your teeth are moving. Loose teeth because of gum disease can mean that the teeth are shifting in your mouth. When gum disease attacks the bones in the mouth, the teeth will no longer be held in place, which can make the bite feel different and uncomfortable.
- You can see a bump. An abscess on the gum is a pocket of pus and built up bacteria. An abscess can make the gums pull away from the teeth, and that’s less than comfortable.