*Updated February 2025
Gum disease is one of the most widespread oral health issues and remains a significant threat to dental health for many people. Understanding this condition is key to protecting your gums and maintaining a healthy smile.
Explore some common questions and helpful facts about gum disease, plus learn how to keep your gums in great shape.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infectious disease that damages the soft tissue around your teeth, known as periodontal tissue. Periodontal tissue is responsible for protecting your teeth and holding them in place, which is why gum disease can often lead to tooth loss.
How common is gum disease?
Research shows that two in five adults in the U.S. are affected by some kind of periodontal disease. Although anyone at any age can get gum disease, the likelihood of getting diagnosed increases as you get older. In fact, nearly 60 percent of adults over the age of 65 have periodontal disease. It’s also more common in men, with 50 percent diagnosed compared to 35 percent of women.
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that can eventually lead to a build-up of bacteria-filled plaque on your teeth. If poor oral health habits continue, the plaque hardens and turns into a hard-to-remove deposit called tartar.
In its early stages, tartar and plaque can cause a mild form of gum disease known as gingivitis. However, if left untreated, the inflammation from plaque build-up will create space between your gums and teeth. Once plaque, tartar, and bacteria get trapped in these deep pockets, a serious infection with several risk factors becomes a major concern.
Symptoms of gum disease
You can treat gum disease if you know what to look for early on. Red and swollen gums are the easiest way to tell that you may be at risk of gum disease, and you should schedule a visit to the dentist immediately.
Other symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding
- Tenderness
- Gums unique in color (bright red, dark red, or purplish)
- Bad breath
- Painful chewing
- Receding gums
- Pus between your gums and teeth
How is gum disease treated?
Depending on the severity of your infection, your dentist may be able to treat gum disease with a deep cleaning. Other treatments include:
- Tooth scaling: A process that removes plaque and tartar from the tooth’s root beneath the gum line. It’s often achieved with a vibrating tool or manual scraping device.
- Root planing: A similar procedure to tooth scaling, root planing pushes the gums aside to clean away tartar and plaque above the gum line.
If a deep cleaning doesn’t fix the issue, your dentist may recommend a surgical procedure, such as:
- Gum graft surgery: Surgery where tissue from various other parts of the mouth is used to cover any exposed roots.
- Flap surgery: A procedure where the gums are cut and lifted away from the teeth in order to access and remove tartar beneath the gum line. After the cleaning, the doctor stitches the gums back into place.
Is gum disease preventable?
Gum disease and other periodontal diseases can be prevented by following good oral hygiene practices, including:
- Brushing twice a day.
- Flossing or using an interdental cleaner daily.
- Visiting the dentist regularly, or if you notice any of the symptoms above.
When should I see a dentist for gum disease?
You should see a dentist when you notice any of the signs and symptoms mentioned or if your dentist recommends periodontitis treatment. It’s important to note that once you exhibit signs of gum disease, only professional cleanings can remove the tartar.
Note: If you’re experiencing severe pain, bleeding that doesn’t stop, or significant swelling, contact your dentist for immediate treatment.
Seeing a dentist promptly can help manage gum disease early and prevent complications like tooth loss or damage to your overall health.
