Gum Disease is Reversible When Treated Early

Gum disease in Westlake, OH, is an extremely common oral health condition. Also known as periodontal disease, untreated gum disease can cause tooth loss, loose teeth, and recessed gums. The good news is that you can reverse the damage when you recognize the symptoms and receive early treatment at the office of Dr. Walter M. Below, D.M.D., Inc.

Common Gum Disease Symptoms and Risk Factors

Having one or more of the signs of gum disease listed below does not necessarily mean that you have the condition. However, we recommend that you request an appointment immediately if you recognize even one of these symptoms. The sooner you receive the right diagnosis, the sooner you can receive treatment and start feeling better. Typical signs of gum disease include:

• Bleeding after brushing or flossing your teeth
• Chronic bad breath, despite brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash
• Gums appear dark red or purple
• Loose teeth and/or a change in tooth alignment
• Pain when chewing your food
• Recessed gums, which means that your gums have started pulling away from your teeth
• Sore gums
• Unpleasant taste in your mouth, which patients often describe as metallic

Gum disease ranges from mild, known as gingivitis, to advanced periodontitis. Unfortunately, gum disease becomes much harder to treat in the later stages.

Knowing your risk factors for developing gum disease can also help you treat or avoid it. Poor oral hygiene, stress, smoking, diabetes, and heart disease top the list of conditions that can contribute to the development of gum disease.

Trust Dr. Below with Your Gum Disease Treatment

Once Dr. Below has confirmed gum disease, the next step is typically deep cleaning, which involves scaling and root planing. We are happy to describe these common treatments forgum disease in Westlake, OH, in greater detail at your next appointment.