Do you have swollen or receding gums? If you have painful and bleeding gums, then you probably have a gum infection or the beginnings of periodontal disease. Whether your gums bleed and hurt when you brush, or they hurt all the time, you should keep an eye out for these clear signs you have a gum infection and see your Manhattan periodontist soon.Swollen and Painful Gums When your gums are noticeably swollen or painful, it is a clear sign that you have a gum infection. Some sort of harmful bacteria has collected in and around your gums, causing them to inflame-a natural immune response to infections. If your gums have actually begun to bleed, at odd times or when you brush or floss, then you probably have gingivitis. If the bleeding is profuse, especially in combination with red and painful gums, then you should see a periodontist soon. You may have periodontal disease, which is the advanced form of gingivitis.Bad BreathIf you notice that you have consistently bad breath throughout the day, even after brushing or using mouth wash, then you might have a gum infection. Infections will cause a foul odor because of bacteria and dead tissue. You might have bad breath because you have an infection in your gums or teeth that your body is trying to fight off. Even if gum disease is not the cause of persistently bad breath, you should still see a periodontist to get to the source of the problem.Painful or Sensitive ChewingWhen your teeth hurt, especially when you chew, you may think you have a cavity. It is possible, however, that you might have a gum infection causing your discomfort. The gums hold and support your teeth and their roots. If your gums are degrading due to infection, then you will notice your teeth hurting or becoming sensitive to various sensations, like chewing. You may even notice your teeth becoming loose because the gums are unable to support them anymore, a sure sign that you need specialized care to restore your smile and save your teeth.
