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Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen, puffy gums
- Tendency for gums to bleed, particularly with tooth brushing and flossing
- Tender, sore gums
- Tooth sensitivity to temperature extremes
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Pain during chewing
- Loose teeth
- Shrunken, receding gum line
- Pockets or gaps between the teeth and the gums
- Abscesses, or pockets of infection
- Pus oozing from the gums or between the teeth
References:
American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at: http://www.perio.org/ .
American Dental Association website. Available at: http://www.ada.org/ .
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website. Available at: http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/ .
Last reviewed July 2007 by Laura Morris-Olson, DMD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.