PERIODONTAL ASSOCIATES

Why you should know about Gum disease...

When you have the flu, or an ache in your back, you know exactly how to describe what you're feeling to your doctor. Unfortunately, some dental problems are not as easy to identify. One of the most elusive dental conditions is gum disease. In its early stage, called gingivitis, there are many minor symptoms and, therefore, it is undetected by most patients. And yet gingivitis is nearly as widespread as the common cold, at one time or another affecting 4 out of 5 adults, and many children. The purpose of this quiz is to help you determine if you may be suffering from some form of gum disease and to identify any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have any of the following warning signs, we urge you to discuss them with a periodontist.

Example: Score -"Score" is centered above an empty column-
Are your gums sore and painful?	Never 0	Sometimes 3	Always 4
Do you experience an unpleasant mouth odor or taste?	Never 0	Sometimes 1	Always 4
Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth?	Never 0	Sometimes 2	Always 6
Do you have swollen red gums?	Never 0	Sometimes 2	Always 4
Do you ever notice loosening of any of your teeth?	Never 0	Slightly 3	Severely 5
Do you have receding gums?	No 0	Slightly 3	Severely 5
Have your permanent teeth drifted or spread?	No 0	Slightly 2	Severely 4
Have your gums separated from your teeth?	No 0	Slightly 2	Severely 5
Does pus appear when you apply pressure to your gums?	Never 0	Rarely 5	Severely 7
Total Score: ____

What your score means:

First and foremost, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see your dentist immediately and discuss the findings of this quiz. However, if your total score is 5 points or less, it is unlikely that you have gum disease. It may be an indication of a potential problem and a regular checkup with your dentist is recommended.

If your total score is 6 points or more, there is an obvious possibility that you have gum disease. It is strongly recommended that you see a periodontist as soon as possible, and discuss your answers to the above questions.

A Visual Guide | Periodontal Q&A | Periodontists | Gum Disease | 7 Danger Signs | Self-Diagnosis