Gum disease is more common than many people realise. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, and it often develops quietly, without obvious pain.
The good news? When caught early, it’s completely treatable and manageable. That’s why recognising the early warning signs is so important.
At Yor Dental, we believe in helping patients protect their teeth and gums for life. If you’re experiencing any of the signs below, it’s time to book a checkup. Early action can help prevent serious problems down the line, and keep your smile healthy and strong.
Here are ten key signs of gum disease you should never ignore.
1. Bleeding Gums When Brushing or Flossing
It might be tempting to dismiss bleeding gums as a sign you’re brushing too hard, but often, it’s your body’s way of telling you that your gums are inflamed. In healthy gums, brushing and flossing shouldn’t cause bleeding.
This is one of the earliest signs of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. It’s a sign that plaque has built up along the gumline and is irritating the soft tissue. Left untreated, it can progress to more advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums
Healthy gums should be pink, firm, and feel comfortable. If your gums are red, puffy, or sore to the touch, there’s likely some level of inflammation occurring — another classic sign of gum disease.
Swelling occurs as your immune system responds to bacteria in the mouth, and it’s often accompanied by discomfort or a burning sensation.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
We all experience bad breath from time to time, especially after certain foods. But if your breath smells unpleasant even after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash, it could be a sign of gum disease.
When plaque and bacteria build up beneath the gums, they release odorous compounds that lead to chronic bad breath (halitosis). Treating the underlying infection is the only way to resolve it for good.
4. Receding Gums
Have your teeth started to look longer than they used to? It might not be your imagination. This could be a sign that your gums are pulling away from your teeth.
Gum recession exposes the roots of the teeth, making them more sensitive and more vulnerable to decay. It’s often a result of longstanding gum disease and should be assessed as soon as possible.
5. A Change in the Way Your Teeth Fit Together
If your bite feels different or your teeth seem to have shifted, gum disease could be the culprit. As the supporting bone and tissue break down, teeth can become loose or move out of place.
Any sudden changes in your bite, especially if you haven’t had orthodontic treatment, are worth investigating with your dentist.
6. Loose or Wiggly Teeth
One of the more serious signs of advanced gum disease is tooth mobility. This happens when the structures that support your teeth, including the bone, begin to deteriorate.
If any of your teeth feel loose, wobbly, or unstable, it’s vital to seek dental attention straight away. The sooner we act, the more we can do to save your natural teeth.
7. A Bad Taste in Your Mouth
An unpleasant or metallic taste that lingers, even after brushing, can be a sign of infection. Gum disease causes the gums to secrete fluids and pus as the body tries to fight bacteria.
If you notice a persistent bad taste that doesn’t go away, it could mean your gums are harbouring harmful bacteria.
8. Sensitive Teeth
Gum recession caused by gum disease can expose the sensitive roots of your teeth. This can lead to sharp discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet items.
While sensitivity can have other causes too (like enamel erosion), it’s often linked to gum problems, particularly when combined with other symptoms.
9. Pus Around the Gums
In advanced cases of gum disease (periodontitis), pockets of pus may develop around the gums or between teeth. This is a sign of a serious infection and often comes with pain, swelling, and even fever.
If you spot any discharge from the gumline, it’s essential to see your dentist as soon as possible. This isn’t something that will go away on its own.
10. Gums That Pull Away from the Teeth
Gum disease can cause deep pockets to form between the gums and teeth. These spaces are the result of gum tissue detaching from the tooth surface, and they create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
We can measure these pockets during a gum assessment. In general, the deeper the pockets, the more advanced the gum disease. Regular dental visits help catch this early before damage becomes permanent.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation.
Certain factors increase the risk of gum disease, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
- Genetics
- Certain medications
The good news? With early detection and treatment, gum disease is reversible in its early stages and manageable if more advanced.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. For early gum disease (gingivitis), we may recommend:
- A professional scale and polish
- Improved brushing and flossing technique
- Antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste
In more advanced cases, deeper cleaning such as root planing may be needed, sometimes combined with medication or referral to a periodontal specialist. We tailor every treatment plan to your individual needs and goals.
Keep Your Gums Healthy for Life
Your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, and caring for them is just as important as caring for your teeth. Recognising the signs of gum disease early means you can take action before it leads to permanent damage or tooth loss.
At Yor Dental, our team is here to support your gum health every step of the way. Whether you need a routine checkup, a hygienist visit, or more specialised care, we’ll make sure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your oral health journey.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, or it’s been a while since your last dental visit, don’t wait. Get in touch today to book a consultation with our friendly team.