Dr. Archana Mal ·
Signs of Gum Disease
Bleeding or swollen gums can be early signs of gum disease. Learn what to look for, what may cause it and when to book a dental assessment.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease affects the tissues that support your teeth. It often starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and around the gums. Plaque above the gumline is called supragingival plaque; plaque below it is called subgingival plaque. Regular brushing and cleaning between your teeth help remove plaque from these areas.
If plaque remains, it can harden into tartar, also called calculus. A toothbrush cannot remove tartar; a dental professional removes it during a cleaning. Plaque build-up is a common cause of gum inflammation, but health conditions, medicines, tobacco use and hormonal changes can also affect gum health.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding when you brush or clean between your teeth is a common early sign of gum inflammation. You may see blood on the toothbrush or in your saliva. Inflamed gums can bleed with little or no pain, so a lack of soreness does not always mean there is nothing to check.
Plaque build-up is one possible cause, but bleeding can also have other causes, including brushing too hard, some medicines, health conditions or hormonal changes. If it happens regularly, arrange a dental assessment. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without speaking to the doctor who prescribed it.
Red or swollen gums
Healthy gums are usually firm. Redness, tenderness or puffiness along the gumline may be a sign of irritation or inflammation. The appearance can vary, and swelling alone cannot confirm gum disease.
A dentist can examine your gums and look for plaque, tartar or other possible causes. If the change continues, gets worse or comes with bleeding, book a check rather than waiting for pain to develop.
Persistent bad breath
Food debris and bacteria can collect on the tongue, between teeth and around the gums. This can contribute to an unpleasant smell, especially when cleaning is difficult or plaque has built up. Ongoing bad breath can sometimes occur alongside gum disease or tooth decay.
Bad breath can also have causes outside the mouth, and mouthwash may only cover the smell for a short time. If it persists despite regular cleaning, a dentist can check your teeth and gums and advise whether you should seek other medical care.
Receding gums
When gums move away from a tooth, more of the tooth or its root may become visible. This can make a tooth look longer and may lead to sensitivity. Gum recession can be linked to gum disease, but it may also have other causes, including brushing too forcefully.
Exposed roots can be more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay. A dentist can assess why the gums have changed and discuss ways to protect the area and prevent further irritation.
Loose or shifting teeth
Teeth that feel loose or begin to shift need prompt attention. Advanced gum disease can damage the bone and tissues that support the teeth, although looseness can have other causes too.
Arrange a dental assessment as soon as you notice a change. The dentist can examine the supporting tissues and explain what care may be appropriate. Early assessment can help clarify the problem and the available options.
Protect your gums
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day using floss or another suitable interdental cleaner. Ask your dentist to show you a gentle technique and recommend a cleaning method that fits your mouth. Routine dental visits can help identify changes and remove tartar that you cannot clean away at home.
Gum disease is common, but persistent symptoms deserve attention. This article is general information and cannot diagnose the cause of bleeding, swelling, bad breath or loose teeth.
