When gingivitis first develops, it can be easy to miss. Though the symptoms are usually noticeable, they aren’t typically obvious at first, and discomfort doesn’t usually occur until the later stages of the condition. Because of this, more advanced gum disease is one of the more common chronic conditions to affect adults’ oral health, and it’s the leading cause behind adults losing teeth. To help protect your smile from the potentially serious consequences of gum disease, it’s important to take gingivitis seriously and have it addressed as early as possible.
What gingivitis actually means
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease development, and it’s unique in that some cases of gingivitis may be reversed with early treatment and management. However, because it’s often missed or ignored, gingivitis often progresses into more severe gum disease by the time patients seek treatment for it. The nature of gum disease makes it a chronic condition that can’t be cured or reversed. In its more advanced stages, addressing gum disease means stopping its progression and managing it to prevent it from causing more damage.
Why it’s easy to underestimate it
Despite the serious consequences that gingivitis can potentially lead to, the symptoms of its development don’t seem so serious at first. Many patients miss the fact that their gums are changing color slightly in certain areas, or that they’re slightly inflamed. If you notice small amounts of blood when you brush and floss your teeth, but don’t feel any discomfort, then you may believe it’s just the result of brushing or flossing too harshly. The best chance at detecting early signs of gingivitis is to pay close attention to the appearance and state of your gums and teeth every time you brush and floss them each day.
How to take the condition seriously
If you do notice any changes in the appearance of your gums, or slight bleeding when you brush and floss, then it’s important not to ignore the warning sign. The fact that the symptoms still seem minor means you have a good chance of treating the condition early enough to prevent extensive damage to your gums and more. With prompt treatment, you can reduce your risks of experiencing tooth loss or more complex periodontal problems and the need for more extensive treatment later.
Deal with gingivitis as soon as possible
If you develop gingivitis, but the symptoms seem minor, it’s important to take the condition serious and seek treatment for it before they get worse. To learn more, schedule an appointment or initial consultation by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI, today at (248) 852-1820.
