What to Watch for with Gum Disease
Gum disease is an extremely common dental condition that is caused by poor dental hygiene. Discover the major warning signs and how to treat the trouble.
The Dental Difference between Gum Disease and Periodontal Disease
Many people think that gum disease is just another term for periodontal disease. Actually, they are different degrees of a similar dental danger. See, gum disease inflames and infects the gums surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontal disease by spreading, and then infecting the bones supporting the teeth. People with severe cases can actually suffer from both burdens at the same time. Luckily, an affordable dentist can usually treat both conditions simultaneously.
Signs of Suffering
Gum disease is usually both seen and felt. Other times, it’s only discovered during a dental appointment. If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with an affordable dentist immediately to prevent its progression. The most common clues include:
- Swollen, red, tender gums
- Gums that bleed very easily, especially during brushing and flossing
- Bad breath
- An odd taste in the mouth
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from teeth
- White spots on the gums
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Shift in the alignment or spacing of the teeth
- Partial dentures start fitting uncomfortably
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Only a dentist can diagnose whether you’re suffering from gum disease or its more advanced stage of periodontal disease. Affordable dentists usually use these methods to detect your degree of dental distress:
- Gums are a Giveaway - Your gums speak volumes about your current dental health. That’s why your dentist will check them for swelling, redness, and bleeding.
- Gaps in Gums - Expect your dentist to use a periodontal probe to check the depths of the pockets in the gums surrounding teeth. Deeper pockets indicate a more developed problem.
- X-rays Mark the Spot - X-rays can offer proof of periodontal disease by showing if any bone has been lost.
- Scoping Sensitive Spots - Any sensitivity near the gum line can be a sign of gum recession, which can indicate gum disease.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in Michigan, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.
Gentle Dental of Michigan offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Michigan. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Michigan, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Gentle Dental of Michigan, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Michigan.
The Dental Difference between Gum Disease and Periodontal Disease
Many people think that gum disease is just another term for periodontal disease. Actually, they are different degrees of a similar dental danger. See, gum disease inflames and infects the gums surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontal disease by spreading, and then infecting the bones supporting the teeth. People with severe cases can actually suffer from both burdens at the same time. Luckily, an affordable dentist can usually treat both conditions simultaneously.
Signs of Suffering
Gum disease is usually both seen and felt. Other times, it’s only discovered during a dental appointment. If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with an affordable dentist immediately to prevent its progression. The most common clues include:
- Swollen, red, tender gums
- Gums that bleed very easily, especially during brushing and flossing
- Bad breath
- An odd taste in the mouth
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from teeth
- White spots on the gums
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Shift in the alignment or spacing of the teeth
- Partial dentures start fitting uncomfortably
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Only a dentist can diagnose whether you’re suffering from gum disease or its more advanced stage of periodontal disease. Affordable dentists usually use these methods to detect your degree of dental distress:
- Gums are a Giveaway - Your gums speak volumes about your current dental health. That’s why your dentist will check them for swelling, redness, and bleeding.
- Gaps in Gums - Expect your dentist to use a periodontal probe to check the depths of the pockets in the gums surrounding teeth. Deeper pockets indicate a more developed problem.
- X-rays Mark the Spot - X-rays can offer proof of periodontal disease by showing if any bone has been lost.
- Scoping Sensitive Spots - Any sensitivity near the gum line can be a sign of gum recession, which can indicate gum disease.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in Michigan, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.
Gentle Dental of Michigan offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Michigan. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Michigan, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Gentle Dental of Michigan, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Michigan.
