According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 4 in 10 American adults have some form of gum disease. Gum disease is a huge threat to your oral health and can result in bone and tooth loss. Your Camarillo, CA, dentist, Dr. Richards, can treat your gum disease when you go in for your dental appointment.

Swollen Gums

Healthy gums shouldn't be red and swollen. Rather, your healthy gums should be firm and pink. Inflamed gums could be an early sign of gum disease. Consider putting better effort into brushing and flossing your teeth. An anti-gingivitis mouth rinse could help improve your condition at this stage. If you don't notice any improvement after about a week, see your dentist.

Bad Breath

The bacteria that causes gum disease could also cause your breath to stink. If you suddenly get bad breath that won't go away after cleaning your mouth, you're due for your next dental appointment.

Bleeding Gums

If you're using a hard toothbrush or flossing again after a break, your gums might bleed. However, if your gums bleed each time you brush your teeth even when you're being gentle, it could be because of gum disease. Bleeding gums are a classic gum disease symptom and call for your dentist's attention.

Receding Gums 

Left unattended, your gum disease can cause pockets to form between your teeth and gums. These pockets continue to expand as your gum disease progresses. Your teeth might appear longer as your gum tissue shrinks and more of your teeth are exposed. At this stage, you risk losing your teeth and shouldn't put off your dental appointment anymore.

Loose Teeth 

Gum disease can make your teeth loose in their sockets. It's a sign of advanced periodontal disease and you should see your Camarillo, CA, dentist if you can feel your teeth moving in their sockets. Furthermore, gum disease can affect your bite and cause tooth sensitivity.

Ignoring the signs of gum disease can affect your oral health and is related to the development of other systemic health problems. Don't hesitate, call (805) 987-6167 to schedule your dental appointment with your dentist in Camarillo, CA, Dr. Richards, if you have these signs.