The only way you can know for sure whether you have gum disease is by having a thorough exam from your dentist. Gum disease does not always present with symptoms, so you may still have a periodontal infection even if you’re not showing signs of the disease.
However, there are a few common symptoms that are a strong indication that gum disease is present:
- Your gums bleed when you brush, floss, or bite down on something hard or crunchy.
- You’ve noticed that an area of your gum is red, inflamed, or swollen.
- Your gums seem to be receding or pulling away from your teeth.
- You experience chronic, persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Your teeth feel loose.
Gum disease progresses through several stages. If we catch it in its earliest stage, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan, including thorough professional cleanings and follow-up visits. Later stages may require a deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, and more frequent visits for cleanings. In some cases, Dr. Breaux may refer you to a specialist for advanced treatment.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please call our Bakersfield dental office to arrange a professional cleaning and exam. The sooner we start treatment, the sooner we can get your oral health back on track.