If you don't go to the dentist as often as you should, you're putting yourself at risk for gum disease. Unfortunately, if you don't take care of gum disease in the early stages, it can quickly develop into something much worse. The advanced stages of gum disease can affect your gums, your teeth, and your health. That's why it's so important that you not avoid dental treatment. If you have gum disease, and your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, don't postpone the treatment, especially if you're experiencing any of the symptoms described below.

You've Got Tooth Pain

If you've been diagnosed with gum disease, and you're postponing the deep cleaning, you need to start paying attention to your teeth. They could be warning you that postponing treatment could be causing more significant damage. One sign of that is increased tooth pain, especially when you bite down. If biting down causes pain or discomfort, but there's no pain any other time, you may be experiencing the symptoms of gum disease. As the root begins to separate from the jaw bone, it can become painful to bite down. If this is happening to you, it's time to stop postponing the deep cleaning.

You've Developed Foul-Smelling Pus

Gum disease causes large pockets to develop around the roots of your teeth. Those pockets eventually fill with bacteria or pus. Once the pockets are filled, the pus will begin to ooze out from around the gums. What you'll notice is yellow or greenish pus oozing up around your affected teeth. In most cases, the pus will leave you with foul-smelling breath and a sour taste in your mouth. If you're experiencing that right now, it's time for a deep cleaning.

You're Noticing Changes in Your Bite

As the pockets around your teeth fill with bacteria, you may notice that your teeth no longer fit properly. They may either shift from side-to-side or become longer. When that happens, you'll begin to notice that you no longer have the same bite as you once did. For instance, when you clench your jaw and smile, you may notice that there's a space between your top and bottom teeth that didn't use to be there. If that's the case, you shouldn't delay your deep cleaning any longer.

You've Got Loose Teeth

As gum disease progresses, it begins to eat away at the jaw bone. Unfortunately, as it's doing that, it's also causing your teeth to become loose. Without proper treatment, your teeth will eventually become so loose that you'll run the risk of losing them altogether. If you're noticing that your teeth are becoming loose, you need to schedule your deep cleaning immediately.

To learn more, contact a dental clinic like Red Oak Dentist.