Gum Disease: Signs, Stages, and How It’s Treated

The two stages

It begins as gingivitis, red, swollen, bleeding gums, which is reversible. Left untreated it can progress to periodontitis, where the bone supporting your teeth is damaged and teeth can loosen.

Signs to watch for

Bleeding when you brush, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and gums that are tender or pulling away from the teeth are all worth getting checked.

How it’s treated

Early gum disease often responds to improved home care and professional cleanings. More advanced cases may need scaling and root planing or specialist periodontal care.