What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease?
At first, the symptoms of gingivitis may be quite minimal. There may be some tenderness in the gums or some slight bleeding. However, this disease can also progress to a serious stage without many people even realizing it. Bleeding gums are usually the first symptom, occurring during brushing or flossing. Persistent red and swollen gums are the next indication that gum disease is beginning. As the disease advances, there are other more serious symptoms. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth becomes quite common if there is infection present. As the bacteria builds up, pockets can develop between the teeth and gums. Teeth may shift because of these pockets. There may be a difference in the way that the top and bottom teeth fit together. Eventually, the gum area around the teeth may become so degraded that removing the teeth becomes necessary.
