Unlike tooth decay, gum disease is often painless in its early stages. That is one reason it goes unnoticed for months or even years.
“The single most ignored sign is bleeding while brushing or flossing,” said Dr Jaydev.
“Healthy gums do not bleed. If your hands bled every time you washed them, you’d see a doctor the same week, but bleeding gums get shrugged off for years.”
Other early signs include:
Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve after brushing
Red, swollen or tender gums
A bad taste in the mouth
Gums pulling away from the teeth
Teeth appearing longer than before
Increased sensitivity to cold
Food frequently getting stuck between the same teeth
By the time teeth become loose or start shifting, the disease is usually advanced and bone loss may already have occurred.
People with poorly controlled diabetes, smokers, users of smokeless tobacco, those living with cardiovascular disease, pregnant women and individuals taking medicines that cause dry mouth face a greater risk of developing serious gum problems.
