Gum disease is very common, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not serious. If you have bleeding or swollen gums, it’s so important not to ignore these symptoms and book a dental appointment as soon as possible.

The dangers of swollen gums

Swollen gums can be very painful, but they can also be a sign of more advanced problems. You may have sore gums if you’ve had sustained an injury, but swelling is usually a symptom of gum disease. Gum disease can usually be treated relatively easy in the early stages, but it becomes a much trickier proposition if it develops. Advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, causes irreversible damage to the gums and the bone tissue that supports the teeth and gums. This means that there is a risk that the teeth can come loose in their sockets and fall out.

Other danger signs

It’s really important to see your dentist if you have inflamed gums, but it’s also wise to keep an eye out for other symptoms, including:

• Painful gums
• Redness
• Bleeding (this is usually most noticeable when you brush your teeth)

Treating gum disease

If you do have early signs of gum disease, known as gingivitis, your dentist will clean your teeth thoroughly to remove plaque and they may offer you some cleaning tips and recommend a dental hygiene session. It’s beneficial to see your dentist every 6 months, but if you are prone to gum disease, more frequent trips may be recommended. In the case of severe gum disease, more intensive treatment is likely to be needed, including scale and polish treatments and root planing.

If you’re worried about swollen gums or you’d like some tips to help you prevent gum disease, call us today.