A Broadway Dentistry hygienist smiling as she talks with a patient in the chair before a cleaning in Fort Wayne

Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease (periodontitis, or gum disease) is a progressive condition and the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the developed world. Toxins in plaque inflame the gum tissue, and the resulting infection (gingivitis) can go on to destroy the gums and underlying bone, loosening teeth or causing them to fall out.

Types of gum disease

Common types of periodontal disease include aggressive, chronic and necrotizing periodontitis, and periodontitis associated with systemic diseases. Each has its own characteristics and symptoms, and all need prompt treatment by a dentist to stop further bone and tissue loss.

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Common signs and symptoms

Periodontal disease can progress without pain or other symptoms, which is why regular dental checkups matter. If you notice any of these signs, see a general dentist or periodontist as soon as possible:

Schedule an Appointment

Unexplained bleedingBleeding when brushing, flossing or eating is one of the most common signs of infection.
Pain, redness or swellingGums that are swollen, red or painful for no clear reason may be infected. Treat it before it reaches the jawbone or spreads through the bloodstream.
Longer-looking teethBacterial toxins destroy supporting tissue and bone, causing gum recession and a more “toothy” smile.
Bad breath (halitosis)Besides the tongue, lungs, stomach, food or tobacco use, bad breath can come from food and bacteria trapped in deep gum pockets.
Loose teeth or a changed biteTeeth loosening or shifting as bone is destroyed is a sign of rapidly progressing periodontitis.
PusPus between the teeth is a definite sign of infection, as the body fights the bacteria.

A smiling patient in the chair at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, which offers cosmetic dentistry and whitening

Treatment of periodontal disease

The dentist first assesses the whole mouth to gauge how far the disease has progressed, then may treat the infection with antibiotics alongside nonsurgical treatment, surgery or both. For moderate disease, scaling and root planing clears debris from the pockets, which may then be filled with antibiotics to aid healing and kill remaining bacteria.

Severe periodontitis can be treated with:

Tissue and bone graftingWhere much bone or gum has been lost, a membrane is inserted to stimulate new tissue growth.
Pocket elimination surgery“Flap surgery” directly reduces the size of the gum pockets.

If you have questions about the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, please contact us!