7 Early Signs of Gum Disease and How to Recognize Them
We usually want (or need) to address a toothache or cosmetic problem with our smiles right away. However, gum disease is an insidious and too often ignored situation that will get worse over time. Drs. Claire Cho and Alyssa Kim in Aliso Viejo , California, understand that catching gum disease is the key to effectively handling it early. Let’s go over some of the early signs of gum disease.

1. Red or Inflamed Gums
Healthy gums are pink and firm to the touch. They form a tight seal around your teeth. However, red or inflamed gums are one of the first signs of gum disease. When plaque builds up around the gum line, your gums become inflamed. If untreated, your condition can progress to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
2. Swelling in Your Gums
If you see swelling in your gums, your body is fighting to keep infection away. Gum swelling may be accompanied by pain or tenderness, but not always. It occurs because plaque is irritating your gums.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
The clinical term for persistent bad breath is halitosis. Halitosis happens when bacteria builds up in the mouth because of gum disease. It’s normal to sometimes have bad breath. It happens to everyone. But if your breath doesn’t become fresh even with diligent oral hygiene, including using antibacterial mouthwash, it may be a sign of gum disease.
4. Brushing or Flossing Causes Bleeding
It’s not normal to see blood in your spit when you brush or floss your teeth. If you do, it’s a symptom of possible gum disease. Frequent bleeding after brushing and/or flossing can signal the beginning of gingivitis.
5. Pus Build-Up Around Your Teeth
In the more advanced stages of gum disease, you may see pus around your teeth. This is a clear sign of infection. This pus is often white or yellow, meaning the bacteria has deeply invaded your gum tissues. If you see pus, it’s a serious condition that needs immediate dental care.
6. Gums Are Receding
Gum recession occurs when your gums pull back to expose more of your tooth or its root. Serious consequences can occur when your gums are receding, including:
- Teeth become more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
- Increased risk of tooth decay along the roots that are exposed.
- Loss of tooth stability can lead to tooth loss or lessened mobility.
- Bite can become misaligned because of changes in the structure of your teeth or gums.
7. Loose or Shifting Teeth
Since gum disease can weaken the bone and connective tissue that supports your teeth, untreated, periodontal disease will eventually lead to teeth becoming loose or shifting noticeably. If you’ve reached this stage, your gum disease is advanced, and you must see a doctor. Cho or Kim immediately to keep from losing your tooth.
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Prevent Gum Disease: Detection and Treatment Is Available at Dental Health & Aesthetics Center in Aliso Viejo, California
To learn more about detecting early signs of gum disease, Aliso Viejo, CA, dentists Drs. Claire Cho and Alyssa Kim and their team at Claire Cho DDS are here to help. Call (949) 541-2529 today or use our online form to schedule your appointment.
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