Three Signs of Gum Disease (Or, “When Do I Need a Deep Dental Cleaning?”)

Our natural teeth are meant to last a lifetime. An at-home dental regimen involving twice-daily brushing and flossing is critical to ensuring the long-term health of your teeth and gums. Unfortunately, dietary choices, smoking, and other health conditions may mean that normal flossing and brushing are not enough to protect your mouth—periodontal disease can creep in when you’re not paying attention.

The following are signs of serious gum disease that indicate you may need to talk to your dentist about a deep dental cleaning.

1) Deep Pockets Between Teeth and Gums

In cases of severe gum disease, the gums will recede from the teeth, creating deep pockets. These pockets are a prime hiding place and breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause bad breath, a persistent bad taste in the mouth, and infections leading to tooth loss.

A pocket more than four millimeters deep is a sign of periodontal disease, and requires a deep cleaning.

2) Bone Loss

Gum disease can cause bone loss in the jaw, which can cause teeth to shift or become loose. You may even notice a change in the way your teeth come together when you bite.

Most dentists do X-rays as part of a comprehensive dental examination, and will typically recommend a deep cleaning if there is evidence of bone loss.

3) Inflamed Gums

One of the first signs of periodontal disease is red, tender, swollen gums. You may even notice that your gums bleed whenever you brush your teeth.

While temporary inflammation may be due to a minor irritation, you should visit your dentist if your gums remain swollen for a prolonged period of time.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms in Studio City, CA, contact Studio City Dental Center to schedule your appointment today!