Your gums might feel rough for a few reasons, but it could be due to a normal, healthy texture or a sign of early gum disease.
Understanding Gum Texture
It's important to understand that some people naturally have gums with a slightly rough, textured surface. Dentists refer to this natural texture as stippling.
Healthy Gums vs. Concerning Changes
Here's a breakdown:
| Gum Texture | Possible Cause | Action to Take |
|---|---|---|
| Naturally Rough | Normal, healthy stippling | Maintain good oral hygiene. |
| Sudden Roughness | Could be early signs of gingivitis | Pay close attention to your oral hygiene. If the roughness persists with other symptoms, see your dentist. |
| Smooth Gums | Concerning if previously stippled | Definitely see a dentist, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. |
Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
A change in the texture of your gums, especially from a previously stippled texture to smooth, is something to watch out for. According to the provided information, a change in texture in the gums is a symptom of gingivitis, especially when it happens alongside other symptoms like:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
If you're experiencing any of these additional symptoms along with the change in gum texture, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the potential gingivitis.
