Symptoms

Gum disease symptoms are often not recognizable until advanced gum disease or periodontitis. For example, an early sign of gingivitis gum disease, metallic taste in mouth, may go unnoticed until moderate periodontitis sets in, during which jaw bone loss begins to occur. Gum disease tooth decay is a severe sign of advanced periodontitis.

Periodontal (gum) disease symptoms that are frequently unremarkable until the periodontal disease has progressed are:

• Tender, red or swollen gums
• Receding gums
• Pussy fluid between teeth and gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Pain when chewing
• Sensitive teeth
• Bleeding while brushing or flossing
• Loose teeth
• Trouble fitting dentures
• Change in bite and jaw alignment

If you are pregnant, have diabetes, are currently taking medications (such as antibiotics, antidepressants or high blood pressure pills) or smoke, be particularly atune to changes in your teeth, gums and supporting structures of the teeth.