If you were diagnosed with the beginning stages of gum disease, and you've been putting off treatment, you may end up with more significant damage. In fact, you could end up with periodontitis, which is the most severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis can lead to premature tooth loss, and other health-related issues, such as heart disease and stroke. If you're not sure whether, or not, your gum disease has progressed, take a look in your mouth. If you recognize any of the symptoms described below, you need to stop avoiding dental treatment.

Gum Discoloration

When your gums are healthy, they'll be a very pale pink. However, as gum disease progresses, and the infection spreads through your mouth, your gums will turn a very bright red, or a deep purple. The color change is a clear sign that your gum disease is no longer in the beginning stages. If you're noticing a change in the color of your gums, it's time to see the dentist.

Gum Sensitivity

When you think of mouth sensitivity, you probably think of your teeth. However, with periodontitis, your gums may also become sensitive. As periodontitis progresses, you may feel mild sensitivity in your gums, or you might feel intense pain. This can occur when you touch your gums, or when you put pressure on your teeth, such as while you're eating. If you're experiencing gum sensitivity, you may be in the advanced stages of gum disease.

Gaps Between the Teeth

If you've normally had gaps between your teeth, you don't need to worry. However, if you've suddenly developed gaps between your teeth, or the gaps you had are becoming more noticeable, your teeth may be shifting due to periodontitis. With periodontitis, your gums can swell, and you can develop pockets around the roots of your teeth. Not only that, but you may begin to experience bone loss in your jaw. Each of those events can cause your teeth to shift, which can lead to the gaps. If you've noticing more prominent gaps, you need to have your gums examined.

Pus in Your Mouth

During the final stages of periodontitis, the pockets that have developed around your roots will begin to fill with pus and bacteria. Without proper treatment, that pus will ooze out from around your gums. You may notice pus oozing out on its own, or it may flow when you press on your gums. Either way, pus is not a good sign. If you've got pus around your gums, you need immediate dental care for your periodontitis.

Contact a dentist, like Tony Parsley, DMD, for more help.