Nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. The tricky part? Early gum disease often doesn't hurt. Here are 8 warning signs to watch for.
⚠️ Why Gum Disease Matters
Gum disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults — not cavities. It's also linked to heart disease, diabetes complications, and pregnancy problems. Catching it early can save your teeth and protect your overall health.
The 8 Warning Signs
1. Bleeding Gums
The most common early sign. Healthy gums don't bleed when you brush or floss. If you see pink in the sink, that's inflammation — your gums are fighting bacterial infection. Don't stop flossing; the bleeding usually improves with consistent care. But see a dentist if it persists.
2. Red, Swollen, or Puffy Gums
Healthy gums are pink and firm. If your gums look red, swollen, or puffy, that's a sign of gingivitis. You might also notice they feel tender. This early stage is completely reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath that won't go away despite brushing is often caused by bacteria hiding in deep gum pockets. The same bacteria causing gum disease produce foul-smelling compounds. If mouthwash only masks it temporarily, gum disease may be the culprit.
4. Receding Gums
If your teeth look longer than they used to, your gums are receding. This exposes the tooth root, making teeth sensitive and vulnerable to decay. Recession can be caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, or grinding.
5. Loose or Shifting Teeth
This is a sign of advanced gum disease. When the bone supporting your teeth breaks down, teeth become loose. You might notice gaps appearing between teeth or changes in your bite. This requires immediate attention.
6. Pus Between Teeth and Gums
Seeing pus when you press on your gums is a sign of active infection. This needs urgent dental care. Don't try to drain it yourself — see a dentist immediately to prevent the infection from spreading.
7. Painful Chewing
Pain or discomfort when chewing can indicate gum disease, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. As supporting bone is lost, teeth become sensitive to pressure. Sometimes teeth ache without visible cavities.
8. Gums Pulling Away from Teeth
Sometimes you can visibly see a gap forming between your gum and tooth. This creates "pockets" where bacteria thrive. Deep pockets are a hallmark of periodontitis. A dentist measures pocket depth during checkups — 1-3mm is healthy, 4mm+ indicates disease.
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
| Aspect | Gingivitis (Early) | Periodontitis (Advanced) |
|---|---|---|
| Reversible? | Yes, fully reversible | No, can only be controlled |
| Bone Loss | No | Yes, progressive |
| Symptoms | Bleeding, redness | Loose teeth, receding gums |
| Treatment | Cleaning + home care | Deep cleaning, possibly surgery |
| Pain | Usually none | Often present |
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
- Smoking: Smokers are 3x more likely to develop gum disease
- Diabetes: High blood sugar impairs gum healing
- Family history: Genetics play a role
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation can increase sensitivity
- Medications: Some drugs cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth
- Poor nutrition: Vitamin C deficiency weakens gums
- Stress: Weakens immune response
When to See a Dentist Immediately
- Pus or discharge from gums
- Teeth becoming loose
- Persistent bad taste in mouth
- Bleeding that lasts more than 2 weeks
- Pain when chewing
- Gums pulling away from teeth
Frequently Asked Questions
Can gum disease be cured?
Gingivitis (early gum disease) is fully reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional cleaning. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) cannot be completely cured but can be controlled and managed to prevent further damage. Early treatment is key to saving teeth.
Why are my gums bleeding when I brush?
Bleeding gums are almost always a sign of gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. While occasional light bleeding can happen with aggressive brushing, consistent bleeding is a warning sign of gingivitis. See a dentist if bleeding continues for more than 2 weeks.
Can gum disease cause heart problems?
Research shows links between gum disease and heart disease. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. People with gum disease have 2-3 times higher risk of heart attack or stroke.
How often should I get my gums checked?
Most people should have dental checkups every 6 months. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend visits every 3-4 months for periodontal maintenance. People with risk factors (diabetes, smoking, family history) should be especially vigilant.
Worried About Your Gums?
Early detection can save your teeth. Get your consultation today for an accurate assessment.
Schedule Gum CheckOr call: +91-7675850909
Dr. P. Srujana Krishna
MDS, Endodontist & Founder
Founder & Chief Dentist at Janani Dental Care, Hafeezpet.