How do i know if i have periodontal disease?

Measurement: Unless it is really advanced where the teeth appear long and feel loose, it is hard for you to tell on your own. With x-rays a professional can see bone loss around your teeth. A probe measures the space between your gums and your teeth where the gums are not attached. If the space is deeper than you can reach with a brush and floss, you have periodontal disease.

See your dentist: Unfortunately, periodontal disease does not usually produce symptoms that patients are aware of until it has really progressed past the initial stages of the disease. While red, inflamed bleeding gums are one of the most common symptoms, only your dentist can determine if you have periodontal problems, how advanced it is, and offer treatment to correct it. See your dentist.

Symptoms: Red puffy gums, bleed easily during brushing and flossing, bad breath, loose teeth, plaque and tartar on teeth.

See a dentist: Sore, puffy gums that bleed when brushing or flossing would be a sign of periodontal disease. You should see a dentist for diagnosis and treatment before you progress to the point of losing bone support and tooth loss. Periodontal disease is often not painful until the more advanced stages, so please do not delay.