Gum Disease

Gum disease is a general term for inflammation and infection of the gums, usually starting with gingivitis, the early stage in which gums become red, puffy, and prone to bleeding. It develops when plaque builds up along the gum line and irritates the gum tissue. In its early stage, gum disease may cause little pain, which is why bleeding during brushing is an important early sign.

What Gum Disease involves

A dentist will check the gums, measure the spaces between teeth and gums, and look for plaque and calculus. Early gum disease can often be improved with professional cleaning and better daily cleaning, while more advanced disease needs deeper treatment. This page covers gum disease in general; advanced disease is covered separately on the periodontitis page.

Signs of Gum Disease

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Red, puffy, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums that look swollen around several teeth

What to do right away for Gum Disease

• Brush twice a day and clean between teeth every day
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products, which worsen gum problems
• Keep regular dental cleaning visits
• Call for help if bleeding is frequent, gums are painful, or teeth feel loose

How a dentist may help with Gum Disease

• Examine the gums and measure gum pockets
• Remove plaque and calculus with cleaning
• Give guidance on brushing and cleaning between teeth
• Plan follow-up to check whether the gums are improving

When to seek urgent care for Gum Disease

Seek urgent care if gum pain is severe, swelling spreads, a tooth feels loose, or you have a fever with gum swelling.

General information on this page is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.

Related emergency dental help

• Periodontitis
• Gum Recession
• Calculus Teeth

Emergency Dental Services — back to the full list. Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries, or call for urgent help.

Frequently asked questions about Gum Disease

Is gum disease the same as periodontitis?

No. Gum disease is the general term. Periodontitis is the advanced stage, in which infection affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.

Can early gum disease be reversed?

Early inflammation can often improve with professional cleaning and consistent daily cleaning. A dentist can check your progress.

Why do my gums bleed if they do not hurt?

Bleeding is often an early sign of inflammation, even without pain. It is a reason to have the gums checked.