If you experience pain while eating hot or cold foods and beverages, it could be a sign of gum disease. You also may notice a change in the firmness of your teeth or that chewing is becoming more difficult.

A periodontist Cedar Park is a specialist in diagnosing, preventing, and treating gum disease. Here are some of the most common signs that you need to visit a periodontist:

Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Gum disease is a severe oral health concern that can lead to several issues. It begins when a bacterium from plaque and tartar irritates gum tissue, leading to inflammation. The inflammation can lead to pockets between teeth and gums if left untreated. These pockets allow bacteria to thrive and can result in tooth loss if not treated. Periodontists are specialists who care for the gums and bone-supporting teeth. They have specialized training in treating gum disease and can perform surgical procedures to help save your teeth.

If your gums bleed during or after brushing, you should immediately schedule an appointment with a periodontist. Swollen or bleeding gums are signs that harmful bacteria are attacking your gums. The periodontist can find out what is causing the problem and recommend an appropriate treatment.

Loose Teeth

While a loose tooth may have been nothing out of the ordinary as a kid and got you a visit from the tooth fairy, it’s anything but normal in adulthood. Loose teeth can be a sign of deteriorating periodontal tissue, which leads to bone loss and serious oral health problems.

A loose tooth may also result from chronic stressors such as clenching, grinding, or sports injuries. In this case, a periodontist Pflugerville will recommend treatment to stabilize your teeth.

Another indication that you have gum disease is persistent poor breath or an awful taste in your mouth. Similar to a regular dental cleaning, this may be addressed with a deep cleaning called “scaling and root planing,” which gets rid of bacteria in the crevices between your teeth that a toothbrush and floss can’t reach.

Changes in Bite

A periodontist is a dental specialist with years of advanced training in diagnosing and treating the structures that support your teeth. This includes the gums, soft tissue, and bone.

Gum disease can destroy this tissue and lead to tooth loss if left untreated. This is why it’s important to visit a periodontist when you notice any changes in your bite or experience painful chewing.

Your first visit to a periodontist will begin with a review of your medical history, including medications and conditions such as diabetes or heart disease that may impact treatment options. You can also ask any questions about your gum health during this time. Then, your periodontist can develop a plan to address your dental issues and help you avoid serious health problems.

Changes in Taste

A change in your taste can indicate that your gums are unhealthy and need a periodontal cleaning. This treatment removes plaque and tartar too deep for a hygienist to reach, restoring healthy gum tissue and reducing the likelihood of future problems.

Your teeth will also feel different when chewing or brushing if you have gum disease. This is because of the shifting and mobility due to gum and bone loss. Your periodontist will be able to diagnose the cause of this and treat it before it gets worse.

Bad breath that doesn’t go away after you brush is a common sign of bacterial buildup in your mouth. It can be a sign of gum disease, and the sooner it is caught, the more likely it is to be reversed.

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, is one of the most prevalent indications that you should see a periodontist. Although food particles and oral germs are the primary cause, gum disease and other health issues, including diabetes, liver illness, and chronic sinusitis may also be indicated.

By treating and cleansing your mouth, a periodontist can assist you in getting rid of halitosis. They may also suggest foods that will help keep your breath fresh and provide advice on improving it.

If you notice red or swollen gums or are experiencing pain while chewing, it is time to visit a periodontist. They will help you take care of your oral health to have a bright and healthy smile for life.