Symptoms
In general, symptoms progress over time and include the following:
-
Red and Swollen Gums. Initially, the gums are red and swollen as in gingivitis.
-
Gum Bleeding. Bleeding of the gums, even during brushing, is a sign of inflammation and the major marker of periodontal disease. One exception is juvenile periodontitis, in which symptoms are mild or even absent. It should be noted that the gums of smokers with periodontal disease tend to bleed less than nonsmokers.
-
Bad Breath. Debris and bacteria can cause a bad taste in the mouth and persistent bad breath.
-
Gum Recession and Loose Teeth. As the disease advances the gums recede, and supporting structure of bone is lost. Teeth loosen, sometimes causing a change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together when biting down or a change in the fit of partial dentures.
|
| Abnormally enlarged, bulging, protruding, or swollen gums are a possible indication of disease. |
|
Click the icon to see an image of recessed gums. |
-
Abscesses. Deepening periodontal pockets between the gums and bone can become blocked by tartar or food particles. The infection fighting white blood cells become trapped and die. Pus forms and an abscess develops. Abscesses can destroy both gum and tooth tissue, cause nearby teeth to become loose and painful, and may cause fever and swollen lymph nodes.
|
Click the icon to see an image of a tooth abscess. |
Pain is usually not a symptom, which partly explains why the disease may become advanced before treatment is sought and why some patients avoid treatment even after periodontitis is diagnosed.
|
