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Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. If your dentist catches it quickly, it is easily treatable and often resolves itself within a few months. Ignoring the warning signs of the condition, however, can lead to more severe illnesses like periodontitis and periodontal abscesses. Watching for the symptoms will help you know when to seek dental care before your oral health worsens.

Dentist’s Early Indicators of Gingivitis 

1. Swelling

dentistHealthy gums appear thick, pink, and firm. Failing to brush or floss properly will leave bacteria behind, which causes inflammation. This condition causes the gums to look red, enlarged, and puffy. Look for bulging or protruding around your teeth to determine if you have abnormal swelling. Call your dentist if you notice this sign of gingivitis, especially if gum pain accompanies it.

2. Bleeding

When there is plaque buildup around the gum line, it attacks healthy oral tissue. Over time, this deterioration leads to bleeding during brushing or flossing. If you experience occasional bleeding when taking blood thinning medications or starting a new flossing routine, you may not have gingivitis. Should you notice regular bleeding, it is time to talk to your doctor.

3. Receding

Signs of gum recession include pockets and gaps around the gum line. To determine if you have the condition, look for teeth appearing longer than normal and new indentations at the site between the teeth and gums. Noticing these symptoms will prevent serious dental issues like enamel damage and tooth loss.

4. Sensitivity 

As gums begin to recede, they expose the roots of your teeth. Unprotected oral nerves lead to discomfort and pain, especially when enjoying hot foods or cold beverages. The most common sign of dental sensitivity includes a sharp stabbing or stinging in the teeth when eating or drinking. The feeling can occur during any meal. However, it is most common when having extremely hot or cold snacks like ice cream, soup, or coffee.

 

If you have one or more of these symptoms and suspect you have gingivitis, call a family and cosmetic dentistry professional for care. Lisa Valderueda, DMD, in Waipahu, HI, is skilled in treating gum disease at every stage. To make an appointment with the dentist, call her practice at (808) 676-5711. For information about the doctor’s services, visit her website. Read patient reviews and get directions to the office by following Dr. Valderueda on Yelp

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