Gum Disease Symptoms
When most people think about oral health, they focus on their teeth. But your gums? They’re just as important. In fact, your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. If something’s off, they’ll usually let you know—you just have to listen.
At Gentle Dental, we help patients catch gum issues early in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME, before they lead to bigger problems like tooth loss or even affect your overall health. So let’s walk through the most common gum disease symptoms, what they mean, and when it’s time to give us a call.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease—also called periodontal disease—is an infection of the gums caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. It usually starts off mild, but if left untreated, it can progress to the point where it damages the bone that supports your teeth.
There are two main stages:
- Gingivitis – the early, reversible stage
- Periodontitis – the advanced, often permanent stage
The sooner you catch it, the easier it is to treat. That’s why recognizing the warning signs is key.
Common Gum Disease Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
- Bleeding Gums
This is one of the first and most common signs of gum disease. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss—even just a little—it’s your body waving a red flag. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed. - Red, Swollen, Or Tender Gums
Gums that are puffy, irritated, or bright red are reacting to plaque and bacteria buildup. This inflammation can become chronic if left untreated. - Receding Gums
Are your teeth starting to look longer? That’s not your imagination—it could be gum recession, where your gums are pulling away from your teeth. It often signals periodontitis and can expose your tooth roots, making teeth more sensitive and vulnerable. - Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
Persistent bad breath (also called halitosis) can be a sign of bacteria trapped below the gumline. If minty gum only masks it temporarily, the real issue may be your gums. - Gum Pockets (Loose Gums Around Your Teeth)
If it feels like there's a gap between your teeth and gums, or food is getting stuck more often, you could be developing gum pockets. This allows bacteria to settle deep beneath the surface and cause serious damage. - Loose Or Shifting Teeth
As gum disease progresses, it can weaken the structures that hold your teeth in place. If your bite feels different or your teeth start to move, it’s time to take action—fast. - Pain While Chewing
Gum disease can lead to sensitive or inflamed tissues around your teeth, making chewing painful or uncomfortable. If eating hurts, your gums might be to blame.
Why Early Detection Matters
Gum disease doesn’t usually start with pain—that’s what makes it so sneaky. But just because it doesn’t hurt at first doesn’t mean it isn’t serious. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to:
- Bone loss
- Tooth loss
- Gum infections and abscesses
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes complications
The earlier we treat it, the more we can reverse or manage the damage, and keep your smile strong for the long haul.
What To Do If You Notice These Symptoms
First things first: don’t panic. Many early signs of gum disease can be reversed with professional dental cleanings and better home care. But you have to act quickly.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Schedule a dental exam right away
- Get a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Brush and floss consistently—yes, daily!
- Ask us about deep cleaning treatments if needed (like scaling and root planing)
We’ll walk you through your options and create a treatment plan that works for your lifestyle and your budget.
Keep Your Gums Healthy—For Life
At Gentle Dental, we believe prevention is always better than repair. By staying on top of your oral health and watching for gum disease symptoms, you can keep your gums strong, your smile confident, and your mouth pain-free.
Noticed any signs of gum trouble? Don’t wait. Call our office today to schedule your visit. Your gums—and your future smile—will thank you.
