What is Gum (Periodontal) Disease?
Early Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
The signs and symptoms of gum disease can be divided into 3 stages: early, progressing and late stages.
Early Stage
In the early stage, the most common signs include bleeding when brushing and/or flossing. Blood can be observed when spitting after brushing and/or fever. Whilst this is relatively common and therefore often ignored, this is the first sign of gum disease. At this stage, if the disease is limited superficially and there is no bone loss, it can be easily reversed. Other signs include swollen and inflamed gums.
Progressing Stage
In the progressing stage, there can be spontaneous bleeding, even without brushing and/or flossing. The teeth can appear longer as the gums recede, and there might be pain on biting. There may be food trapping due to newly formed spaces between teeth. There can also be pus oozing out from the gums.
Late Stage
In the late stage, as more and more of the supporting bone is lost, the teeth may shift in position resulting in spaces appearing between the teeth. This will eventually affect your ability to chew properly. Some of the teeth will be shaky and may even fall out by themselves. You may notice changes in the way you are biting.
Once bone loss sets in, it is extremely hard for the bone to regenerate. However, if proper oral hygiene is maintained and risk factors are controlled, a healthy set of teeth can be maintained for a long time.
Why Early Detection Matters
How to Prevent Gum Disease
You can reduce your risk of gum disease by following these simple steps:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss or use interdental brushes every day to remove plaque between teeth
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning (every 6 months)
- Maintain a balanced diet and avoid smoking
Maintaining a good oral care routine not only protects your teeth and gums but also helps prevent complications such as receding gums, which can develop from the early stage if left untreated.
Conclusion
Gum disease is common but preventable. By spotting the signs early – such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, you can protect your smile and avoid long-term damage. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait until the problem worsens.
At Royce Dental Group, our dentists can assess your gum health and provide treatment options, including scaling and root planing, deep cleaning, or specialist referral if needed.
