In short: The common signs of gum disease are gums that bleed when you brush or floss, that look red, swollen or shiny, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and — in advanced cases — loose teeth. Early gum disease is often painless, so these subtle signs are worth acting on before it worsens.
Gum disease is common and often silent in its early stages, which is exactly why it’s worth knowing what to look for. Watch for these signs:
- Bleeding gums when you brush or floss — the most common early warning, and never normal.
- Red, swollen, or shiny gums — healthy gums are firm and pale pink.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste that doesn’t go away.
- Receding gums — teeth that look longer than they used to.
- Sensitivity along the gumline.
- Gaps opening up between teeth, or a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
- Loose teeth, or gums pulling away from the teeth — these are signs of advanced disease.
The tricky part is that early gum disease (gingivitis) usually doesn’t hurt, so many people don’t realise they have it. Pain tends to appear only at later stages, once real damage is underway. That’s why you shouldn’t wait for discomfort as your signal.
A dentist can diagnose gum disease precisely by examining your gums and gently measuring the little pockets around each tooth — deeper pockets indicate more advanced disease — and using X-rays to check the bone level.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth getting checked. A gum health assessment will tell you exactly where you stand and what, if anything, needs doing.