Do your gums bleed when you’re brushing or flossing? Do they look red and inflamed? Do you have sensitivity along the gumline, or wake up every morning with bad breath?
These are some of the earliest warning signs of gum disease (also known as periodontitis). This chronic infection can have serious consequences if left unchecked. It causes receding gums, tooth decay, and even tooth loss, so it’s a condition we take very seriously.
If you notice any of these red flags, contact us to schedule an exam and cleaning.
Six Telltale Signs of Gum Disease
1. Bleeding Gums
It’s never normal for your gums to bleed. Although bleeding can happen if you brush or floss too aggressively, it’s more likely one of the first signs of gingivitis. At this early stage, it’s still possible to reverse gum disease with a professional dental cleaning and better brushing and flossing habits.
2. Redness and Swelling
Healthy gums should look pink and feel firm. If your gums are red or tender, it’s likely because of a bacterial infection caused by plaque and tartar buildup. When the infection irritates the gums so much that they become swollen or inflamed, it’s time to seek treatment before the problem gets worse.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
If you have bad breath that won’t go away with brushing or mouthwash, it could be a sign of gum disease. As the gums recede, they pull away from the root of the tooth and leave pockets that trap bacteria and allow the infection to grow. In this case, scaling and planing is the best way to remove the trapped bacteria and stop gum disease in its tracks.
4. Receding Gums
If your teeth look longer than they used to, it’s a sign of gum recession and advanced gum disease. The tooth root does not have enamel, so you might feel sensitivity or notice dark stains along the gumline. As the gums recede, the root of the tooth gets exposed to harmful bacteria, and tooth decay is far more likely.
5. Sensitivity
If your teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold foods, don’t ignore it. Tooth sensitivity can be a sign of several dental conditions, including gum disease. Gum recession often leads to tooth sensitivity as the root becomes less and less protected.
6. Loose Teeth
If your teeth feel loose, it’s likely due to gum disease. The infection and inflammation make it difficult for your gums to support your teeth the way they should. Advanced gum disease can also cause bone loss in the jaw, weakening the foundation for your teeth even further. Loose teeth mean something is seriously wrong, so if your teeth feel loose, you need to see a dentist.
Make an Appointment Today!
Professional cleanings twice a year are the best way to keep gum disease at bay. You may need other treatments as well, like scaling and planing or laser therapy. We also offer Perio Protect trays, a non-invasive way to treat gum disease at home.
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs of gum disease, please call us to make an appointment and we’ll get you scheduled for a cleaning right away.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (4/17/2026). Photo by Look Studio on Unsplash
Dr. Paul Whitney opened his dental practice in April 1987 in Flagstaff, Arizona, and has resided there for over 26 years. Having received his B.S. in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts in 1979 and his D.D.S. from Georgetown University in Washington, DC, in 1983, Paul has years of education and experience in a variety of fields.
