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Your dentist doesn’t just check your teeth. Your gums and gum health also play a big role in your dental and oral wellness. And, with nearly half of all adults in the United States over the age of 30 being impacted by gum disease, staying aware of your gum health might be more important than you realize.

The care team at Russell Family Dentistry, under the leadership of family dentist Louis Russell Jr., DDS, can diagnose and treat your gum disease, no matter how far your condition has progressed. However, you can best protect your dental and oral health by catching gum problems early, and preventing the development of full-blown gingivitis or periodontitis.

That’s why we want our new and existing patients to know the signs to watch for when it comes to the first stages of gum disease. Getting professional attention right away can slow or reverse the deterioration of your gums, before serious consequences like tooth loss start to become a real risk.

The long-term risks of gum disease

Gum disease can start small, then become more serious over time if left untreated. Small bacterial infections affecting your gum tissue can turn into gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease, and can be reversed with professional treatment and improved at-home care.

Untreated and worsening gum disease can cause your gums to recede, leaving you more vulnerable to tooth decay and even tooth loss. Gum disease can also lead to persistent bad breath.

Untreated gingivitis can progress to become periodontitis. Eventually, periodontitis can erode your jawbone, leading to serious oral health complications.

Warning signs of gum disease

The first signs of gum disease aren’t always obvious, but if you pay attention to your oral and dental health, you can detect gum disease before it becomes a serious problem. Your regularly scheduled dental check-ups are another chance for early detection of gum disease and other related concerns.

Bad breath is sometimes an early indicator of gum disease. If you have progressive gingivitis, you might notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss. Gum disease could cause your gums to change in appearance, turning bright red or purple in color, or becoming puffy or swollen. Discomfort while chewing can also indicate early gum disease, and should be checked out by a professional.

If you notice pus appearing between your teeth and your gums, or your gums beginning to recede, get professional dental care to reverse the progression of your worsening gum disease.

To be examined for gum disease by the team at Russell Family Dentistry and start putting together your preventive treatment plan, get in touch with our Tomball, Texas office today. You can book your appointment online, or give us a call now to schedule.