Periodontal disease is a progressive condition with symptoms that worsen over time. Over 47 percent of all American adults aged 30 and older have periodontal disease. The condition starts with minor symptoms known as gingivitis, but it can lead to tooth loss when it goes unchecked.
This blog will share the symptoms of periodontal disease from mild to severe. Patients who notice these symptoms should speak to their dentist about reducing their risk of complications.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Swollen gums
- Red gums
- Gums that bleed or feel tender to the touch
- Teeth that are sensitive to heat or cold
- Gums that pull away from the teeth or recede
- Changes in dental bite
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Tartar is the product of bacteria and food particles left to harden on the teeth. When tartar or calculus builds up along, and under the gum line, gums become red and swollen. Bacterial waste products cause irritation and infection.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
If you have gingivitis, you may not know it. Many people believe that bleeding when brushing or flossing is normal. However, these subtle symptoms can mean a more significant problem is coming.
Patients with gingivitis will also observe that their gums are red and possibly swollen. They may experience heat and cold sensitivity. In advanced cases, they may feel tenderness or soreness.
Fortunately, most cases of gingivitis are reversible if you have excellent home hygiene. Brush and floss as instructed, and receive a professional cleaning. You may want to switch to an electric toothbrush to remove plaque more effectively.
Periodontitis
If patients leave gingivitis alone or overlook the symptoms, it will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis has stages that progress as follows:
- Moderate Symptoms
- At this stage, the support structure around the teeth have suffered irreversible damage. Deep pockets form between the teeth and gum tissue, allowing food, bacteria, and plaque to collect. Gums begin to recede, altering the patient’s appearance. The patient may have bad breath that does not respond to treatment.
- Severe Symptoms
- Teeth become loose due to further breakdown of their supporting structures. The patient’s dental bite may suffer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Can I prevent periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is preventable in most patients. If you practice excellent oral hygiene, tartar will not have a chance to accumulate and damage your gums.
What are some risk factors for periodontal disease?
Certain habits and conditions raise your chances of developing this problem:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Alcohol use and smoking
- Type 2 diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Insufficient vitamin D and calcium in the diet
- Excess body weight
Contact Periodontal Associates
If you have any symptoms listed in this article, you must take action to save your teeth. Please discuss this condition with your dentist and formulate a plan to control periodontal disease. With prompt attention, you can preserve your smile in the long term.
Contact us at our convenient Metro West locations in Framingham and Newton Centre today.
Getting one or more dental implants requires a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It may take a few days to a few weeks to completely heal, and a few months for the implant to fully bond with the jaw bone. During this time, it may be necessary to be careful about what you eat and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the implant was placed.
Following your dentist’s instructions carefully will help your dental implant heal faster and last longer. What can you eat after dental implant surgery? Here’s what dentists recommend.
What to Eat the Day Of or the Day After Dental Implant Surgery:
Immediately following your dental implant surgery you may have some mild discomfort and swelling. Cold liquids and soft foods are best, such as:
- Smoothies. The best thing about smoothies is that they can consist of many different types of foods, giving you essentially all of your food groups in one glass. Chia seeds provide protein and grains, also serving as a thickening agent. Yogurt is another option for protein and good fat. Use whatever fruits you prefer. You can even add spinach or kale to get your leafy greens. Peanut butter is another good protein-filled ingredient.
*Avoid drinking through a straw.
- Applesauce. A good source of vitamins, applesauces, especially those combined with other fruits and vegetables, can provide a range of nutrients with a soft, cold texture.
- Yogurt. As long as you have no issues with dairy, yogurt is another protein-rich option with good dairy fat to help you feel full. Avoid options that include fruit chunks or granola, which will be too hard to chew at this time. Dairy is also rich in calcium, which is good for bone strength.
- Cold soups. Hot foods and beverages are best to avoid for the first few days, but cold soups are perfectly fine. Gazpacho and other soups served cold provide nutrients and offer a savory option in place of sweets.
What to Eat After the First Week:
After the first week your mouth should be a lot less sensitive, but it is still necessary to eat soft foods while your implant is bonding with the jaw bone. Try these:
- Eggs. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be made in a variety of ways with other nutritious ingredients added. Scramble eggs with spinach or make an omelet with cheese and other soft vegetables.
- Potatoes. Potatoes can be made in a range of textures. Start with mashed potatoes and work up to chewier forms as you are ready.
- Cheese. Cheese is a soft dairy food that can be eaten in a variety of ways. It can be added to food or eaten alone. And cheese is rich in calcium to promote healthy bones.
- Chicken. When you’re ready to try meat, chicken can be made soft enough to chew without too much trouble. Be careful that you don’t cook it until it is tough. Slow cooker recipes often make chicken very tender.
- Fish. A naturally soft meat, fish is an excellent source of protein. Just be on the lookout for bones, especially in certain types of fish.
- Ground beef. The best way to introduce red meat back into your diet is through ground beef. It is soft and easier to chew than a steak or other cuts of beef.
When in Doubt Ask Your Dentist
If you’re really unsure about what to eat or whether or not you should eat a certain food, ask your dentist. It is always better to be sure before you eat something to avoid potential damage to your implant.
Periodontal Associates Provides Dental Implants in Framingham and Newton
Are you looking for a periodontist in the Framingham or Newton area to get one or more dental implants? Periodontal Associates skillfully places dental implants using minimally invasive technology to help you recover faster and get back to eating the foods you love. With our expertise and your dedication to your own dental hygiene, your dental implant can last a lifetime.
Contact us at either of our two convenient locations to request an appointment:
Framingham: 508-875-6185
Newton: 617-964-6185