Periodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing periodontitis diseases. They are dental professionals trained to manage periodontal diseases and other poor oral health issues and help patients maintain good dental health. From scaling and root planing to gum graft surgery and dental implant placement, periodontists offer various services to help patients achieve and maintain healthy gums and teeth. If you are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums, loose teeth, gum disease, or chronic bad breath, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a periodontist as it might be a sign of an advanced periodontal disease to protect the health of your gums and teeth.
The following are warning signs of periodontal disease:
1. Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away.
Bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away can be a very frustrating and embarrassing problem. It can be caused by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, medications, dry mouth, and certain medical conditions.
The first step in addressing bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and food particles from the tongue. Additionally, you must visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.
If your bad breath or bad taste persists despite good oral hygiene, it may be caused by a medical condition. Common medical conditions that can cause bad breath or bad taste include sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, and liver or kidney disease. If you suspect your bad breath or bad taste is caused by a medical condition, you must see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
In some cases, bad breath or bad taste can be caused by certain medications. If you are taking any medications, you must speak to your doctor or pharmacist to determine if they could be causing your bad breath or bad taste.
Finally, dry mouth can also cause bad breath or bad taste. A dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, dehydration, or medical conditions. To help alleviate dry mouth, drinking plenty of water throughout the day and avoiding sugary and acidic drinks is important. Additionally, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can help stimulate saliva production.
In conclusion, bad breath or bad taste that won’t disappear can be frustrating and embarrassing. It is essential to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Additionally, it is essential to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that a medical condition or certain medications cause your bad breath or bad taste. Finally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary and acidic drinks can help alleviate dry mouth.
2. Red or swollen gums.
Red or swollen gums can be a sign of a number of different issues. It is important to pay attention to any changes in your gums and to seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen.
The most common cause of red or swollen gums is gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If it is not removed, it can cause inflammation and irritation of the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums, as well as bleeding when you brush your teety or using a dental floss.
Other causes of red or swollen gums include periodontitis, an advanced form of gingivitis. Periodontitis is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria that has spread below the gum line. Symptoms of periodontitis include red, swollen, and tender gums, receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
In some cases, red or swollen gums can be caused by an infection. Infections of the gums can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms of an infection include red, swollen, and tender gums, as well as pain, pus, and bad breath.
Red or swollen gums can also be caused by certain medications, such as blood thinners or antibiotics. You must talk to your doctor about potential side effects if you are taking any medications.
You must see your dentist or doctor if you are experiencing red or swollen gums. They will be able to diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment may include brushing and flossing more regularly, using an antibacterial mouthwash, or taking antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause.
Taking care of your gums and seeking medical attention if you experience any changes is essential. Red or swollen gum tissue signify a severe condition, so taking action as soon as possible is vital.
3. Tender or bleeding gums.
Tender or bleeding gums can signify a severe health issue and should not be ignored. It is crucial to address the issue as soon as possible.
The most common cause of tender or bleeding gums is gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria in plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth and gums and can cause irritation and inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, a more severe condition that can cause tooth loss and other health problems.
Other causes of tender or bleeding gums include brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, or using a toothbrush with frayed bristles. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as blood thinners, or hormonal changes during pregnancy.
If you are experiencing tender or bleeding gums, you must see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose the cause of the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. Treatment may include a professional cleaning, antibiotics, or other medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
It is also essential to practice good oral hygiene to prevent tender or bleeding gums. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. It is also essential to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Tender or bleeding gums can signify a severe health issue and should not be ignored. If you are experiencing tender or bleeding gums, you must see your dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment.
4. Painful chewing.
Painful chewing can be a very uncomfortable and even debilitating experience. It can be caused by various issues, ranging from dental and medical conditions.
If you are experiencing painful chewing, it is essential to determine the cause first. If the pain is due to a dental issue, such as a cavity or a cracked tooth, it is essential to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose the issue and provide treatment to alleviate the pain.
If the pain is due to a medical condition, such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), it is important to visit your doctor. TMJ is a jaw joint disorder that can cause pain when chewing. Your doctor can diagnose the issue and provide treatment to alleviate the pain.
In addition to visiting your dentist or doctor, there are some things you can do at home to help alleviate the pain. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods can help reduce the pain, as can avoiding chewing gum. Applying a cold compress to the area can also help reduce the pain. Additionally, taking over-the-counter pain medications can help reduce the pain.
If you are experiencing painful chewing, it is crucial to determine the cause and seek treatment. Visiting your dentist or doctor can help diagnose the issue and provide treatment to alleviate the pain. Additionally, there are some things you can do at home to help reduce the pain.
5. Sensitive teeth.
Sensitive teeth can be a very uncomfortable and even painful experience. It can be caused by various factors, including worn tooth enamel, exposed tooth roots, gum recession, and even tooth decay. It can be triggered by hot or cold foods and drinks, sweet or acidic foods, and even brushing or flossing.
The first step in treating sensitive teeth is to identify the cause. If the sensitivity is due to worn enamel, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment or a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. If the sensitivity is due to exposed tooth roots, your dentist may recommend a root canal or a crown. If the sensitivity is due to gum recession, your dentist may recommend a gum graft or a special mouthwash. If the sensitivity is due to tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a filling or a crown.
In addition to treating the underlying cause of the sensitivity, there are also some things you can do at home to help reduce the discomfort. Avoiding acidic and sugary foods and drinks can help reduce sensitivity. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using a desensitizing toothpaste can also help. If brushing is too painful, try using a desensitizing mouthwash instead.
You must see your dentist if you are still experiencing sensitivity after trying these treatments. They can help determine the cause of the sensitivity and recommend the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seeing a periodontist is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental issues like chronic periodontitis. Ridge Crest Dental Implants and Periodontics specialized dental professionals trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases of the gum and supporting structures of the teeth. They offer various services, including scaling and root planing, gum graft surgery, and dental implant placement. If you are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums, loose teeth, or chronic bad breath, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a dental hygienist as it may be a sign of an advanced periodontitis. By getting treatment from a periodontist, you can protect the health of your gums and teeth and improve your overall quality of life. Contact Ridge Crest today!
