The main symptoms of gum disease are red, swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, gums pulling away from the teeth and, in later stages, loose teeth. Gum disease comes in two stages: gingivitis, which is reversible, and periodontitis, which damages bone and can be managed but not undone.
Gingivitis vs periodontitis
| Gingivitis | Periodontitis | |
|---|---|---|
| What is affected | Gums only | Gums, ligaments and bone |
| Typical signs | Redness, swelling, bleeding | Receding gums, pockets, loose teeth |
| Pain | Usually none | Often none until advanced |
| Reversible? | Yes | Damage is permanent, progress can be stopped |
Warning signs to look out for
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums that look like they are shrinking, making teeth look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or have shifted
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
- Pus between teeth and gums
Gum disease is often painless, so many people do not realise they have it until it is advanced. Regular check-ups catch it early.
Who is at higher risk?
Smokers, people with diabetes, pregnant women, people under stress and those with a family history of gum disease are more likely to develop it. Crooked teeth that are hard to clean also raise the risk.
How gum disease is treated
At Melrose Advanced Dentistry, treatment depends on the stage:
- Gingivitis: a professional scale and polish plus improved home care.
- Early periodontitis: deep cleaning below the gumline (root planing) to remove bacteria from pockets.
- Advanced periodontitis: ongoing maintenance cleans and, in some cases, referral to a periodontist for surgical treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can gum disease be cured? Gingivitis can be fully reversed. Periodontitis can be controlled so it stops getting worse, but lost bone does not grow back on its own.
Is gum disease contagious? The bacteria can be passed through saliva, but whether you develop gum disease depends mostly on your own cleaning and risk factors.
Does gum disease affect general health? Research links gum disease with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Healthy gums are part of overall health.
Worried about your gums? Book a gum assessment at Melrose Advanced Dentistry in Melrose, Johannesburg: 072 200 1774 or advanced-dentistry.co.za.