What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. The disease usually starts with a mild infection of the gums caused by a buildup of bacteria in the form of plaque or tartar (a harder form of plaque that requires professional cleaning to remove). If left untreated, gum disease can worsen, leading to even more severe problems, such as gumline recession, tooth loss, and severe oral pain.
Recognizing the symptoms of gum disease early is essential for reversing the progression of the disease and preventing the development of more serious complications. In this article, we will discuss the common symptoms of gum disease, so you can identify them and take action before the condition progresses.
Bleeding Gums
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of gum disease is bleeding from the gums, especially when brushing or flossing your teeth. When plaque or tartar builds up on the teeth and along the gumline, it can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation. Such swelling can in turn make bleeding gums even more likely. In the early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis, such bleeding is typically mild and may stop after a few days, either on its own or through more consistent dental hygiene, but if bleeding persists, it probably indicates that your case of gum disease has advanced to a more serious stage.
Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. When they become infected, though, they often appear red and swollen. Swollen gums are often sensitive and may feel tender to the touch—a sign of inflammation caused by bacterial buildup. Pain while chewing can also be a symptom of gum disease. This pain may be localized to specific areas of the mouth or occur across a broader section of your gums.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Another common symptom of gum disease is persistent bad breath, or halitosis. This occurs due to the bacteria that accumulate in the mouth. As bacteria feed on food particles and plaque, they release foul-smelling toxins that can cause bad breath. If brushing, flossing, and mouthwash don’t help to improve the odor, it could be a sign of gum disease that requires treatment.
Receding Gums or Shifting Teeth
Persistent disease can cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. This gumline recession creates pockets between the gums and teeth, which can harbor more of the bacteria that caused the condition in the first place. In such cases, your teeth may appear to be longer than before, as the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth surface. The exposed tooth roots may become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
The loss of gum tissue and bone can cause teeth to shift or become misaligned, leading to discomfort or difficulty with chewing. If your bite feels different, or if your teeth no longer line up properly, it could be a sign of advanced gum disease that requires immediate professional care.