When you have gum disease, you need to get your condition managed fast. The reason why is simple: your gums are a large part of your overall oral health. If your gums are threatened by gum disease, you risk losing healthy gum tissue, an infection that can spread to your teeth, and certain discomfort as your condition worsens.

You can manage some of your gum disease symptoms at home, using special toothpaste and mouthwash to give your smile a boost. Flossing your teeth and gums is one of the best ways you can improve your gum health as well, but you may not be able to do all your oral hygiene at home. Here are signs you need to see the dentist about your gum disease.

You have uncontrollable bad breath

Gum disease can lead to constant bad breath, which can be not only embarrassing but also serious. If you have uncontrollable bad breath, see your dentist. The bad breath you have can be caused by infection and decay, which can mean that not just your gums are affected, but your teeth as well.

You have gum changes

If your gum disease is worsening, you'll see your gums change. Your gums might get longer, or appear to pull away from your teeth. Your gums might become bright red, or even turn a darker color, like purple or even black. Any gum changes may be a sign that your gum disease is getting worse, so make an appointment with your dentist to have your gum health evaluated.

You have mouth pain

Does your gum disease cause mouth pain at the base of your gums or in the bottom of your teeth? Do you suffer from nerve pain whenever you brush or floss your teeth? Are your gums swollen and sore? Do you have bleeding gums? If you do, then see your dentist for oral care. You might have a mouth infection that needs antibiotics to cure. Your dentist will want to continue to evaluate your oral health to ensure your mouth remains in healthy condition.

Gum disease often requires dental intervention to keep the condition from worsening. If you have any problems with your gums, from mild gum pain and discoloration to severe discomfort and infection, rely on your dentist to help you. Your dentist will come up with a treatment plan that can help your oral health stay in check and get better, so you can feel better about your smile and keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong.