Did you know that the leading cause of tooth loss among adult dental patients is actually gum disease? When the infrastructure of your smile is damaged, you are less likely to be able to retain healthy teeth. That is why our Novato gum disease dentists encourage all of our patients to regularly screen their smiles for symptoms of gum disease. Make a special point to look out for…
Bad Breath: halitosis is a hallmark of periodontal disease, because oral bacteria generate unpleasant odors as they grow and multiply. So, it makes sense that the more bacteria you have in your mouth, the harder it will be to maintain fresh breath.
Visual Changes: periodontal disease can affect the appearance of your smile, especially in its later or more severe stages. Keep your eyes open for red or swollen oral tissues. Stay alert for signs of gum tissue recession (when your gums pull away from your teeth), as this often indicates that your oral tissues are compromised.
Sensitivity: if you notice that you’re experiencing discomfort when you consume something hot, something cold, something acidic, or something sweet, talk to your dentist about undergoing an oral health assessment. In a healthy smile, the sensitive nerves that generate discomfort are protected by oral tissues.
Our Novato periodontal disease dentists provide state-of-the-art preventive and restorative care. We’re here to make sure your smile stays on track well into the future.