Unhealthy gums are a part of a domino effect: a lack of oral health care and neglected dental visits can lead to bad teeth…
Bad teeth can lead to unhealthy gums…
And unhealthy gums can in fact have detrimental effects on your overall health.
In addition to all of this, unhealthy gums also equates to bad breath!
Unhealthy gums is a warning sign that can lead to a number of oral health issues, including:
- Gingivitis (early stages of gum disease)
- Gum disease (also known as periodontitis)
- Cavities
- Cracked teeth
- Loss of tooth
And all of these conditions can lead to a range of whole-body health issues, such as:
- Respiratory illness
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
(As such, there’s a reason we talk so frequently about the mouth-body connection!)
Today, our South Yarra dentist explains some of the major signs of unhealthy gums.
What are the signs of unhealthy gums?
There are a few tell-tale signs that can help identify the early signs of gum disease or any other gum or oral issue.
These signs are usually easy to spot and some may cause a level of pain or discomfort. At the earliest stages, ensure you book a check-up with your dentist in South Yarra; don’t delay and hope that they will simply disappear!
Bad breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a source of embarrassment for all, however fewer actually know that it can also be a symptom of early gum disease.
Plaque build-up provides the perfect living environment for bacteria to grow and reproduce. The result is bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth.
Bleeding gums
Simply put, your gums should not bleed when you eat, brush, or floss.
Bleeding gums may be a sign of early gum disease (also known as gingivitis), caused by a build-up of plaque on your gum line.
In extreme cases, bleeding gums can also be a sign of a more serious condition.
Tooth sensitivity
Do your teeth hurt when you eat something very cold, very hot, or very firm?
While there are a number of reasons for tooth sensitivity, including genetics, it can often be a result or sign of gum disease.
This is because inflamed gum tissue can expose the root of your tooth, making contact with it sensitive to external stimuli.
This exposure can be very harmful to your teeth and should be treated immediately.
Receding gums
Have you noticed your teeth are starting to look longer when you look at photos of yourself or in the mirror?
Your gums could actually be pulling away from the base of your teeth.
This is caused by a bacterial infection that destroys gum tissue. Receding gums are a serious oral health issue and can lead to tooth sensitivity, exposed roots and nerves, and even tooth loss.
This hard-to-miss warning sign of gum disease should be attended to by your local dentist as soon as possible.
Tender or swollen gums
Tender gums can be painful! And as we always say, “If it hurts, it’s an emergency!”
Often going hand in hand with bleeding, tender or swollen gums are another tell-tale sign of early gum disease.
How quickly does gum disease progress?
Shockingly, gum disease can advance in as little as 5 days, and within just a few weeks, signs are severely more noticeable. As such, we consider gum disease a serious health matter that justifies immediate treatment.
We can’t emphasise it any more: if you notice even the smallest or earliest signs listed above, please don’t delay in booking a dental appointment!
How do I get my gums healthy again?
Dentists are experts in diagnosing and treating even the earliest signs of unhealthy gums.
The first step you should take to protect your health and your smile is with dental check-ups twice a year.
And of course, your daily routine has a huge impact on your oral health. Brush with a good-quality toothbrush and floss gently and thoroughly twice a day. Need tips to help encourage the family (especially kids!) to maintain their oral health?
Speak to your friendly family dentist! We can help little ones understand the importance of brushing, and share simple, easy to follow tips, such as how much toothpaste to use or how to brush your tongue.
How do you know if your teeth are unhealthy?
The best way is with the support and expertise of a dentist in Armadale!
From baby’s first tooth to geriatrics, we hope to become your family dentist of choice!
And if you’re looking for a dentist for kids, then look no further.
Our dentists can organise family appointments for you and your children and ensure a safe, fun, and friendly environment for all. We’re passionate about helping educate the next generation on the importance of oral health and instilling good habits while young.
In addition to general health checks and gum disease treatment, we also offer a range of professional cosmetic services, including:
- Veneers
- Teeth whitening
- Crowns
- Dental implants
Contact Dental Care Group now on (03) 9509 1500 or schedule an appointment with us online.
