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7 Early Signs of Gum Disease and How to Recognize Them

We usually want (or need) to address a toothache or cosmetic problem with our smiles right away. However, gum disease is an insidious and too often ignored situation that will get worse over time. Drs. Claire Cho and Alyssa Kim in Aliso Viejo , California, understand that catching gum disease is the key to effectively handling it early. Let’s go over some of the early signs of gum disease

Treatment for Gum Disease in Aliso Viejo CA Area

1. Red or Inflamed Gums

Healthy gums are pink and firm to the touch. They form a tight seal around your teeth. However, red or inflamed gums are one of the first signs of gum disease. When plaque builds up around the gum line, your gums become inflamed. If untreated, your condition can progress to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. 

2. Swelling in Your Gums

If you see swelling in your gums, your body is fighting to keep infection away. Gum swelling may be accompanied by pain or tenderness, but not always. It occurs because plaque is irritating your gums. 

3. Persistent Bad Breath

The clinical term for persistent bad breath is halitosis. Halitosis happens when bacteria builds up in the mouth because of gum disease. It’s normal to sometimes have bad breath. It happens to everyone. But if your breath doesn’t become fresh even with diligent oral hygiene, including using antibacterial mouthwash, it may be a sign of gum disease. 

4. Brushing or Flossing Causes Bleeding

It’s not normal to see blood in your spit when you brush or floss your teeth. If you do, it’s a symptom of possible gum disease. Frequent bleeding after brushing and/or flossing can signal the beginning of gingivitis. 

5. Pus Build-Up Around Your Teeth

In the more advanced stages of gum disease, you may see pus around your teeth. This is a clear sign of infection. This pus is often white or yellow, meaning the bacteria has deeply invaded your gum tissues. If you see pus, it’s a serious condition that needs immediate dental care. 

6. Gums Are Receding

Gum recession occurs when your gums pull back to expose more of your tooth or its root. Serious consequences can occur when your gums are receding, including:

  • Teeth become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
  • Increased risk of tooth decay along the roots that are exposed.
  • Loss of tooth stability can lead to tooth loss or lessened mobility.
  • Bite can become misaligned because of changes in the structure of your teeth or gums.

7. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Since gum disease can weaken the bone and connective tissue that supports your teeth, untreated, periodontal disease will eventually lead to teeth becoming loose or shifting noticeably. If you’ve reached this stage, your gum disease is advanced, and you must see a doctor. Cho or Kim immediately to keep from losing your tooth. 

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Prevent Gum Disease: Detection and Treatment Is Available at Dental Health & Aesthetics Center in Aliso Viejo, California

To learn more about detecting early signs of gum disease, Aliso Viejo, CA, dentists Drs. Claire Cho and Alyssa Kim and their team at Claire Cho DDS are here to help. Call (949) 541-2529 today or use our online form to schedule your appointment.

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Dr. Claire Cho, Claire Cho DDS, CA

Dr. Claire Cho, DDS, brings over 31 years of experience to her practice. She completed her residency through Nobel Biocare and earned surgical and prosthetic certification from the Misch Implant Institute. In 2011, Dr. Cho was awarded fellow status by the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. She is certified in oral plastic surgery following specialized soft tissue grafting courses and is one of the few dentists in Orange County certified to offer LANAP. Dr. Cho stays current by attending many continuing education programs annually. Recent accolades include nominations for Top Doc of Orange County and Best of LA Cosmetic Dentist.


Dr. Alyssa Kim

Dr. Alyssa Kim completed her undergraduate studies at UC San Diego before earning her DDS at the UCLA School of Dentistry. Dedicated to staying at the forefront of dental advancements, she actively pursues continuous education. Dr. Kim is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Contemporary Dental Institution, and Pacific Implant Academy. She serves on the Korean American Dental Association (KADA) Philanthropy Foundation and Pre-Dental Mentorship Program. Dr. Kim has also completed extensive implant training through the OASIS Implant Academy in Tijuana, Mexico.

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