When it comes to oral health, gum disease often shows up in subtle ways before turning serious. Knowing the early and later signs can help you protect your gums and avoid long-term damage. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects the tissues and bone that support your teeth. It starts with inflammation and can progress to infection and tooth loss if not treated.
One of the most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. You may see blood when brushing or flossing, even if you are using a soft toothbrush or being gentle. Many people think this is normal, but it is one of the clearest indicators that something is wrong.
Swollen or puffy gums are another early warning sign. Healthy gums should lie flat against your teeth and feel firm. If they appear enlarged, feel tender, or seem to bulge out slightly, inflammation is likely present. This can happen due to plaque buildup irritating the gumline.
Color changes in your gums can also signal a problem. Instead of a healthy pink, gums affected by disease may turn red or purplish. This shift in color often reflects increased blood flow due to inflammation.
Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, is another sign that often goes unnoticed. When bacteria accumulate below the gumline, they produce foul-smelling compounds that brushing alone cannot remove. If your breath stays bad even after cleaning your teeth, gum disease could be the cause.
A more advanced sign is gum recession. This is when your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth surface or even the root. This can make teeth appear longer and cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Gum recession creates spaces where bacteria can collect, making the problem worse if not addressed.
You may also notice changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite or chew. Teeth that shift position or feel loose could be responding to bone loss caused by periodontal disease. In severe cases, you may even feel pain when biting or chewing.
Another concerning sign is the presence of pus between the gums and teeth. This usually means an active infection is present and needs immediate attention. It may be accompanied by swelling in the face or jaw, depending on the severity.
Not everyone experiences all of these signs, and some people may not feel any discomfort at all until the disease is more advanced. That is why regular dental checkups are so important. A dentist can measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums (also known as pockets) to detect early signs of gum disease.
The signs of gum disease include bleeding, swollen, or discolored gums; persistent bad breath; receding gumlines; loose teeth; and changes in bite. These signs may start small, but they often lead to larger issues if ignored. Paying attention to your gum health and acting early can help prevent lasting damage and keep your smile strong, bright and healthy.