Quick answer
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It usually starts as gingivitis, with red, puffy gums that bleed when you brush, and can progress to periodontitis, which damages bone. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between teeth daily and getting regular professional cleanings are the best ways to prevent it.
Here’s a fact that surprises a lot of our patients: gum disease is incredibly common. Research led by the CDC found that nearly half of American adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontitis. The good news is that the early stage is very treatable, and often completely reversible.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. When plaque isn’t removed, it irritates the gums and can harden into tartar, which only a dental professional can remove.
Gingivitis vs. periodontitis
Gingivitis is the early stage. Your gums may look red or swollen and bleed when you brush or floss, but the bone and connective tissue holding your teeth are still intact. With good home care and a professional cleaning, gingivitis can usually be reversed.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage. Pockets form between the teeth and gums, and the infection begins to break down bone. Over time, teeth can loosen or even be lost. This damage can’t be fully undone, but treatment can stop it from getting worse.
Warning signs to watch for
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Loose teeth or a change in how your teeth fit together
Gum disease is often painless, which is why many people don’t realize they have it until a dentist points it out.
Who is more at risk?
Anyone can develop gum disease, but your risk is higher if you smoke or use tobacco, have diabetes, are pregnant, take medications that cause dry mouth, or have a family history of gum problems.
How to prevent gum disease
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, angling the brush toward the gumline.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser.
- Don’t smoke, or get help quitting.
- Keep up with regular professional cleanings, which remove tartar you can’t reach at home.
Key takeaways
- Nearly half of U.S. adults over 30 have some form of periodontitis.
- Bleeding gums are often the first warning sign.
- Gingivitis is usually reversible; periodontitis damage is not.
- Daily brushing, flossing and regular cleanings prevent most gum disease.
Frequently asked questions
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage, can usually be reversed with good home care and a professional cleaning. Periodontitis can be controlled but bone loss can’t be fully reversed.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding is usually a sign of gum inflammation caused by plaque. If it doesn’t improve after a week or two of thorough daily cleaning, see a dentist.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Research has linked gum disease with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Keeping your gums healthy is part of caring for your whole body.
Need a dentist in Charlotte?
Cusp Dental Group welcomes new patients at three offices: SouthPark, Blakeney and Steelecroft. Same-day emergency appointments are available.
Sources: CDC-led study on periodontitis prevalence (via JCDA) · Dimensions of Dental Hygiene: Prevalence of periodontitis in U.S. adults
This article is for general education and isn’t a substitute for a personal dental exam or professional advice. If you have pain, swelling or a dental injury, contact a dentist promptly.
