Gum Disease
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Gums become red, swollen, and sore
- Often causes bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Very common condition affecting many people
- Can lead to tooth loss if untreated
Overview
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when your gums become inflamed, appearing red, swollen, and sore. It's a very common condition that affects many people worldwide. If left untreated, it can progress from mild inflammation to more severe problems affecting the tissues supporting your teeth. The primary cause of gum disease is the build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on your teeth. If plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it irritates the gums, leading to inflammation and infection. Early gum disease can often be reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning. More advanced cases may require deeper cleaning, antibiotics, or even surgery to prevent tooth loss and other complications.
Signs and Symptoms
- Gums bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods
- Swollen, red, and sore gums
- Bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Shrinking gums (receding)
- Loose or falling out teeth
- Dental abscess
Things That Increase the Risk
- Poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup
- Smoking
- Pregnancy (due to hormonal changes)
- Having type 2 diabetes
- Not having regular dental check-ups
Diagnosis
- Dental examination by a dentist
- Checking gums for redness, swelling, and bleeding
- Measuring gum pockets around teeth
- Assessing for loose teeth
Treatment & Management
- Professional dental cleaning (scaling)
- Deep cleaning under gums (root planing)
- Antibiotics to fight infection
- Gum surgery for severe cases
- Tooth removal if severely damaged
- Advice on proper daily oral hygiene
- Smoking cessation advice
Prevention
- Brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
- Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
- See a dentist and dental hygienist for regular check-ups
- Avoid smoking
- Do not use mouthwash immediately after brushing teeth
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Gum Disease:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Gum Disease:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Gums and supporting tooth structures
Prevalence
Very common
Diagnosis
Dental examination
Treatment
Professional cleaning, improved hygiene
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
Need Professional Help?
Consult with our healthcare professionals to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.