Periodontal disease is an advanced stage of gum disease, which essentially means that the gums are extremely infected. Periodontal disease presents itself in many ways, ranging from swollen gums to excessive bleeding. Unfortunately, many individuals suffer from gum infections every year, which makes it necessary for them to undergo treatment in order to restore good health. Healthy and strong gums appear much different than infected ones.
Outlined below are five signs of healthy gums. It can be helpful to review the following information when trying to determine whether or not periodontal health is in good shape.
Healthy gums that are not infected with periodontal disease appear pink. Individuals with infections in their gums often have red or white patches throughout the soft tissues. The gums should look pink throughout with no signs of discoloration.
Bleeding is almost always a sign of an infection, whether it is in the gums or the teeth. If there is excessive bleeding from the gums every time oral hygiene is practiced then it is likely that periodontal disease is present. Consulting with a dentist about bleeding gums is important as treatment will be necessary.
Healthy gums will not bleed much when brushing or flossing. From time to time, there may be occasional light bleeding from the gums, which is actually normal and quite common.
Another sign of healthy gums is if the gum line appears straight and even. Individuals with periodontal disease often experience jagged or uneven gum lines, which is usually the result of the gums receding or deteriorating. Uneven gum lines typically have to be treated through a contouring procedure, which is used to re-align and straighten out the gum line.
When periodontal disease is not present, the gum lines will appear even, aligned, and unobstructed. Flossing and brushing daily will help ensure that the gum line remains intact.
Healthy gums that are free of periodontal disease should always feel firm, as this indicates that they are strong and stable. If the gums are soft or puffy then periodontal disease is likely present. To test the strength of the gums, it is appropriate to gently touch them with a forefinger.
Individuals that have deep pockets along the gum line are likely suffering from periodontal disease. The gum line should not only appear even and aligned, but it should also be tight and free of pockets. Deep pockets occur when an infection is eating away at the soft and hard tissues beneath.
Struggling with periodontal disease? When the gums do not appear to be healthy, it is necessary to consult with a general dentist. An evaluation can be performed in order to determine the appropriate course of action, which will include treatment measures to get the gums back into healthy shape. Reach out today to learn more about periodontal disease or to get started with a consultation appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hemingwaydds.com or call Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S. at (805) 409-2358 for an appointment in our Santa Barbara office.
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