Gum, or gingiva, is the firm, fleshy tissue covering the necks of the teeth. Poor dental hygiene can cause gum infection, which results in soft tissue damage. Visiting your family dentist for routine oral care will help you catch infections early and prevent gum disease. Use this guide to learn more about the early signs of gum disease.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease

1. Swollen Gums

Gum inflammation results from an overgrowth of dental plaque due to improper dental hygiene. This is one of the earliest signs of gum disease that, if left untreated, can cause deep infections causing tooth loss. Another factor that may contribute to swollen gums is viral infections. For example, if you're suffering from herpes, you will most likely develop herpetic gingivostomatitis, a viral infection characterized by gingivitis and canker sores. Try salt and water mouthwash to aid in removing dental plaque, and schedule a proper dental cleaning from a family dentist.

2. Bad Breath

The overwhelming presence of bacteria in your mouth can cause an unpleasant odor when it breaks down proteins and releases sulfur compounds. The bacterial build-up may be caused by dry mouth, tobacco use, and poor oral hygiene. If you have bad breath, the American Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist for a dental cleaning and brushing your teeth twice every day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 

3. Sensitive Teeth

Another sign is sensitive teeth caused by receding gums that expose a part of the teeth called dentin. When exposed to an outside environment, dentin response to stimuli is a brief, sharp pain, which is why you wince after drinking a cold beverage. Try relieving the pain by using toothpaste for sensitive teeth that temporarily covers the sensitive nerve. If the pain persists, have your gums checked by a dentist to treat the underlying problem.

If you're looking for a family dentist in Richmond, KY, turn to Mark Stephens, DMD. Dr. Stephens and his attentive staff provide high-quality and reliable oral health services for the entire family. Their services include dental implants, full dentures, and the best teeth whitening in town. Visit their website to find out how they can help, or call (859) 626-0069 to talk to their friendly staff about gum treatments.