What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Milder types of gum disease (gingivitis) cause:

• Red, swollen, tender gums.
• Gums that bleed easily when brushed or flossed. Healthy gums do not bleed with regular brushing and flossing.

Because gingivitis usually isn't painful, you may not notice the symptoms and may not get the treatment you need. If you don't get treated, the disease may progress.

Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) causes more noticeable symptoms, such as:

• Gums that pull away or recede from the teeth.
• Persistent bad breath.
• Pus coming from the gums.
• A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite, or a change in the fit of partial dentures.
• Loose teeth.

If you use tobacco, you have a higher risk of gum disease. Your gums may actually bleed less, even though they are unhealthy and you may not realize it's a problem until its too late. If you use tobacco, you will need to see your dentist more often.

Bleeding during toothbrushing is often one of the first symptoms of gum disease.  Healthy gums don't bleed. Other signs may be continual bad breath even after toothbrushing, the presence of pus or yellow exudate coming from around the teeth, or teeth that feel loose.