It’s easy to focus on your teeth when you think about oral health. After all, they do the heavy lifting of chewing and form the foundation of your smile. But what about your gums? Healthy gums are just as crucial for a healthy mouth. So, should you worry about them? The short answer is yes—paying attention to your gums is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health.
At McKinley-Holloway Legacy Dentistry, we want our patients in Shelby Township, Clinton Township, and Macomb to understand that healthy gums don’t happen by accident. Recognizing the early signs of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the first step toward preventing serious issues down the road.
Common Early Signs of Gum Disease
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It’s caused by plaque buildup along the gumline that irritates the soft tissue. The good news is that gingivitis is completely reversible with prompt and proper care. Watch for these common indicators:
- Bleeding Gums: Seeing pink in the sink when you brush or floss is not normal. It’s often the very first sign that your gums are inflamed.
- Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink. If they appear puffy, dark red, or feel sore to the touch, it’s a red flag.
- Persistent Bad Breath: If you have chronic bad breath (halitosis) that doesn’t go away with brushing and mouthwash, it could be caused by bacteria trapped in your gums.
- Gum Recession: Do your teeth look longer than they used to? This happens when your gums pull away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Subtle Changes in Your Bite: If your teeth suddenly don’t seem to fit together the way they used to, it could be a sign of underlying changes in your gum and bone structure.
What to Do: Taking Action Against Gum Disease
If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic—take action. Under the guidance of a dental professional like Dr. Brittany McKinley-Holloway, you can get your gum health back on track. Here are the steps we recommend:
- Improve Your Home Care: Brush for two minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush angled toward the gumline. Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth. Consider adding tools like interdental brushes or a water flosser for extra cleaning power.
- Use an Antimicrobial Rinse: A therapeutic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and control plaque buildup.
- Schedule Professional Cleanings: Regular cleanings are essential for removing hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t get rid of at home. For early gum disease, a professional cleaning may be all you need to reverse it.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk for gum disease and makes it harder for your gums to heal.
- Maintain Routine Checkups: Proactive dentistry is the best defense. Regular visits allow us to spot issues before they become severe. If needed, we may recommend a deeper cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing to treat more advanced gingivitis.
Your Partner in Gum Health
Your gums protect your teeth and the bone that supports them. Ignoring early warning signs can allow gingivitis to progress into a more serious, irreversible condition that can lead to tooth loss.
Don’t wait for discomfort to become a major problem. If you’re concerned about the health of your gums, the team at McKinley-Holloway Legacy Dentistry is here to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brittany McKinley-Holloway today for a comprehensive evaluation. Let’s work together to ensure your smile is healthy from the gums up.
CONTACT MCKINLEY-HOLLOWAY LEGACY DENTISTRY:
586-685-0880
LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
45665 VILLAGE BLVD
SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN
48315
