Gingivitis and periodontitis - Symptoms of gum disease

Healthy gums should be pink, firm and keep your teeth securely in place. Your gums should not bleed when you touch or brush them.

Gum disease is not always painful and you may be unaware you have it. This is why it is important to have regular dental check-ups.

Early symptoms

The initial symptoms of gum disease can include:

red and swollen gums
bleeding gums after brushing or flossing your teeth

This stage of gum disease is called gingivitis.

Advanced symptoms

If gingivitis is untreated, the tissues and bone that support the teeth can also become affected. This is known as periodontitis.

Symptoms of periodontitis can include:

bad breath (halitosis)
an unpleasant taste in your mouth
loose teeth that can make eating difficult
gum abscesses (collections of pus that develop under your gums or teeth)

Acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis

In rare cases, a condition called acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) can develop suddenly. The symptoms of ANUG are usually more severe than those of gum disease and can include:

bleeding, painful gums
painful ulcers
receding gums inbetween your teeth
bad breath
a metallic taste in your mouth
excess saliva in your mouth
difficulty swallowing or talking
a high temperature (fever)

When to see a dentist

You should make an appointment to see your dentist if you think you may have gum disease or ANUG.

If you do not currently have a dentist, search for a dentist near you.