Gum conditions such as periodontal disease can develop gradually and may not show early signs. Regular check-ups and professional cleaning help identify changes early and support the ongoing care of the gums and surrounding tissues.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease refers to inflammatory conditions affecting the gums and structures around teeth. It ranges from mild gingivitis (gum irritation) to more advanced periodontitis (involving bone and connective tissue). If left unmanaged, it can lead to gum recession, bone loss and even tooth mobility or loss.
Gum conditions can develop gradually over time and may progress through several stages:
- Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums that can cause redness or bleeding, but does not affect the bone.
- Early periodontitis – mild loss of bone around the teeth and deeper spaces forming between the gums and teeth.
- Moderate to advanced periodontitis – further loss of bone support and changes that can affect how firmly teeth are held in place.
Because symptoms may be subtle, regular professional monitoring is crucial for early detection.
Why Gum Health Matters
Gums play an important role in keeping teeth supported and stable. They protect the bone and tissues that hold each tooth in place. When gum disease develops, these tissues can become weakened, which may lead to tooth movement, discomfort, or, in advanced cases, tooth loss.
Research has also shown links between gum health and general health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. While dental care does not replace medical care, regular gum checks can help identify signs that may need further medical attention.
Looking after your gums supports comfort and helps maintain the strength and function of your teeth over time.
Causes and Risk Factors
Gum conditions can develop due to a combination of factors. Some of the main contributors include:
- Plaque build-up: A film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums is often the starting point.
- Oral hygiene habits: Irregular brushing or not cleaning between the teeth can allow plaque to remain.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can affect gum tissues and slow healing.
- General health: Conditions such as diabetes, hormonal changes, or immune-related issues can influence gum health.
- Medications: Some medicines can reduce saliva flow or cause changes in gum tissue.
- Family history: Genetics can play a role in how gums respond to plaque and bacteria.
- Lifestyle factors: Diet, stress, and daily habits may contribute to how gum conditions develop or progress.
- Age: The effects of plaque and inflammation can increase over time if not managed.
Not all gum disease is painful early on, so even patients without discomfort may need evaluation.
Recognising Early Signs
Some early indicators of gum disease include:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, tender or red gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Mild gum recession or sensitivity
- Areas that feel rough, or pocketing (the “gap” between gum and tooth)
As the disease advances, deeper pockets form, pus may appear, teeth may shift or loosen, and bone loss becomes visible on imaging.
Early gum disease may not cause obvious signs, so regular dental check-ups are the best way to detect any changes.
