Blog Post

Gum disease is one of the most common health issues across the country. By the time an American reaches age 30, they have a 42% chance of living with this condition. By age 65, nearly 60% of adults have gum health problems. 

If you think gum disease is no big deal, think again. Problems with your gums have links to a wide array of serious health issues, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, respiratory problems, and more.  

That’s why authorities have marked February as Gum Disease Awareness Month.

During this important time to raise awareness, Sandi E. Silva, DDS, and our team want to help you watch out for this common and serious health problem. As part of our family dentistry services, Dr. Silva can check your gums at each of your biannual teeth cleanings. Visiting our Tustin, California, office twice a year goes a long way toward keeping your gums healthy. 

You don’t have to wait six months to check in with your gum health, though. Be on the lookout for a few of these surprising symptoms of gum disease on your own. 

#1: Receding gums

Gum disease often causes gum swelling. But, surprisingly, your gums can also move in the opposite direction. Gum swelling is usually a sign of early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), but as the problem worsens (turning into periodontitis), it can cause gum recession.

If you notice that your gums are shortening and exposing more of your teeth, you probably have gum disease. 

#2: A metallic taste in your mouth

If you have a sharp, metallic taste in your mouth, it could indicate that your oral health needs some attention. Gingivitis and periodontitis — the two forms of gum disease — are two of the top causes of this unwelcome flavor sensation. 

#3: Dark gums

In most cases, the inflammation and infection of gum disease starts by turning your gums red. Don’t rule out other colors, though. If your gums look dark (even black), it could indicate that you have serious gum disease. 

#4: Tooth problems

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums. Left unchecked, its impact can ripple out to your teeth. 

For example, if you’ve been dealing with new and persistent tooth sensitivity, it could be coming from a gum problem. As this disease causes gum recession, it exposes more of your tooth root, contributing to more sensitivity. 

Left unchecked, gum disease can contribute to worse tooth problems, too. Your teeth might get loose or even fall out. 

In other words, this health issue warrants your attention early and often. Stay on the lookout for these surprising symptoms, along with other more common ones: redness, tenderness, swelling, and gums that bleed easily. 

During Gum Disease Awareness Month, we’re here to help you keep this critical oral tissue healthy. So we can check your gums and make recommendations if they need extra attention, call our office to schedule an appointment today.