Nearly half of adults over the age of 30 have signs of gum disease. Gum disease is a spectrum that can range from mild gingivitis to severe periodontal disease. It’s caused by an overgrowth of oral bacteria along the gumline, which leads to chronic gum inflammation. If not treated effectively, this inflammation can lead to a deeper infection that affects the jawbone and teeth. 

Gum disease is so common because it’s easy to miss the subtle and often painless warning signs. Read on to learn the top three signs of early gum disease and when to see the best dentist in Hillsborough for treatment. 

Six Signs That Your Gum Health is in Jeopardy 

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is rarely obvious at first. But if you’re paying attention to important clues, you can stop gingivitis from progressing into periodontal disease. 

1. Bleeding Gums: The First Warning Sign of Gingivitis

You might notice a pinkish tint in the sink or a metallic taste when you rinse after brushing, which disappears just as quickly. Many people think they brushed too hard or got too rough with the floss by mistake. In reality, bleeding gums are one of the most common early signs of gingivitis and a clear indicator of gum inflammation. Catching this early matters because gingivitis can usually be reversed with simple treatments like better brushing and flossing habits, and a deep professional dental cleaning known as scaling and root planing. 

2. Halitosis: Persistent Bad Breath 

Persistent bad breath can be frustrating and embarrassing. It can even lead some people to brush and floss more vigorously, which can cause more damage to the gums. This is not the dry, stale taste you notice when you first wake up. It is a sour, sulfur-like odor that returns shortly after brushing your teeth. This comes from bacteria hiding below the gumline, where a toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash cannot reach. These bacteria release gases that carry a sharp, unpleasant odor. When bad breath does not improve with good daily care, it can be an early sign of a gum infection. 

3. Gum Sensitivity and Tenderness 

Unlike a toothache, gum sensitivity is usually just a sore spot that stings when floss slides between two teeth or a tender ache when your toothbrush brushes the gumline. While the gums may appear normal in the mirror, tender gums are an early symptom of gum inflammation and often appear before visible signs of gum disease, such as swelling or redness.

4. Receding Gums 

Gum recession happens so slowly that you might not notice anything until it's quite advanced. Most people notice receding gums, where a tooth appears slightly longer, or the gumline looks uneven. There is usually no pain at first, but as gum recession worsens, you’ll develop tooth sensitivity when cold or hot foods hit the exposed portion of your tooth root. 

5. Redness and Swelling of the Gums

Healthy gums usually look pink and feel firm when you run your tongue along them. In early gum disease, the gums may appear slightly red and puffy. Because this swelling is mild, many people assume it is normal or something that will pass on its own. These changes are often the body’s first visible response to plaque sitting along the gumline. 

6. Tooth Sensitivity and Loose Teeth

A combination of other symptoms can cause tooth sensitivity in one or more teeth. This sensitivity can be slightly different from person to person. Some people notice only a sensitivity to cold drinks, while others are sensitive to sugary foods. Because this discomfort is usually mild at first, many people assume a toothpaste for sensitive teeth is all they need. Unfortunately, this won’t help unless you’re also getting treatment for your gingivitis.

Finding the Best Dentist in Hillsborough for Gum Disease Treatment

A hint of blood in the sink, tender gums, or persistent bad breath can be easy to dismiss, yet these signs are important to report to your dentist. Catching gum disease early makes treatment simpler, lowers the risk of it advancing to periodontitis, and supports better health beyond the mouth. 

At Promenade Smiles, we focus on identifying these early changes and addressing them before they lead to lasting damage. Our team is known for thorough dental exams, honest conversations, and proactive dental care that prioritizes saving your natural teeth whenever possible. 

Ready to ensure the future health of your smile with the best dentist in Hillsborough?