Recognizing the signs of gum disease

Gum disease often starts small, but if left untreated, it can cause serious damage to your oral health. That’s why early detection, routine dental visits and good oral hygiene are so important. 

In this guide, you’ll learn the signs and symptoms of gum disease, the stages it moves through and what you can do to protect your oral health. And if you’re noticing changes in your gums, your Aspen Dental team is here with care that’s clear, fast and built for you. Schedule an appointment today.

How gum disease works

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, happens when bacteria build up along the gumline. If plaque isn’t removed through brushing or flossing, it hardens into tartar, which becomes much harder to clean away. That buildup triggers inflammation, leading to infection over time. 

It begins as gingivitis, the mildest form and can progress into more serious stages like periodontitis if not treated early. 

The earlier you catch gum disease, the better. Untreated, it can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, bone loss and even tooth loss. 

The good news? Daily oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups with your Aspen Dental care team can make all the difference. 

What are the 5 signs of gum disease?

1. Red or purple gums

Healthy gums are pale pink. If your gums look red or purplish, it could be a sign of inflammation or infection.

2. Bleeding gums

Seeing blood when you brush, floss or eat? Bleeding is one of the most common signs of gum disease—and a reason to schedule a visit at Aspen Dental.

3. Sore or tender gums

Sensitive, aching or swollen gums often point to early gum disease. It can also come from brushing too hard. We’ll help you figure out what’s going on.

4. Persistent bad breath

If your breath stays bad even after brushing or rinsing (also called halitosis), bacteria under the gums could be the cause.

5. Gum recession

When the gum tissue starts pulling away from your teeth, your smile can look longer and feel more sensitive. Gum disease is often the reason for gum recession. 

Why you shouldn’t ignore the signs of gum disease

Gum disease isn’t just a mouth issue—it affects your overall health. 

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible. But if it progresses to periodontitis, the damage can become permanent. 

That’s why spotting it early and acting quickly matters. At Aspen Dental, we make it easy to get the care you need—whether it’s a preventative cleaning or a more intense treatment plan, we’re in your corner. 

Stages of gum disease

Gingivitis 


What it is: The earliest stage, caused by plaque and bacteria. 


Signs: Red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing.

Stage 1: Mild periodontitis 


What it is: The infection starts affecting the gums and supporting bone. 


Signs: Receding gums, persistent bad breath and early bone loss.

Stage 2: Moderate periodontitis 


What it is: Deeper pockets around the teeth and more bone damage. 


Signs: More gum loss, loose teeth and increased sensitivity.

Stage 3 & 4: Advanced periodontitis 


What it is: The most severe stage—significant bone loss and risk of tooth loss. 


Signs: Loose or shifting teeth, gum recession and pain when chewing.

Treatment for gum disease

Gum disease is common— but it’s treatable with periodontal disease treatment. And when it’s caught early, it’s even reversible. 

At Aspen Dental, your care starts with a conversation and X-rays. We’ll take a close look at your gums, talk through what’s going on, and build a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Here’s how we treat gum disease at every stage: 

• Gingivitis treatment: If you’re in the early stages, we’ll start you on a gingivitis treatment. This stage can be reversed.

• Periodontal treatment (scaling and root planing): This is a deeper kind of clean. This treatment removes infectious bacteria from below the gumline and includes ongoing maintenance to restore gum health.

• Gum grafts: If your gums have receded, we may recommend a graft to help restore lost tissue and protect your tooth roots. 

• Tooth restoration or extractions: In more advanced cases of periodontitis, we may need to restore or remove severely damaged teeth and replace them with implants or dentures.

The sooner you act, the simpler treatment tends to be. And with Aspen Dental, you’re never doing it alone. Your care team will walk with you every step of the way—with upfront pricing, flexible scheduling and real solutions that put your health first. 

FAQs about gum disease

Is gum disease reversible?

Yes, if caught early as gingivitis. More advanced stages like periodontitis can’t be reversed, but we can manage them with ongoing care.

How can I prevent gum disease at home? 

• Brush twice a day 

• Floss daily 

• Use antibacterial mouthwash 

• Avoid smoking 

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet 

• Visit your dentist at Aspen Dental regularly for checkups

How fast can gum disease progress?  

It depends. Gum disease moves at different speeds for different people. Your genetics, habits and health all play a role. 

That said, gingivitis can start at anytime if brushing and flossing fall off track. And if it’s left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis within a few months. That’s why catching it early, and staying consistent with your care, makes such a difference. 

Your Aspen Dental team can spot signs early, treat issues fast and help keep your gums healthy for the long run.

What does gum disease look like?

It may start with red, puffy or bleeding gums. As it progresses, you might see gum recession, loose teeth or even pus near the gumline.

Don’t wait to act

Gum disease often starts subtle and progresses over time, but it doesn’t stay that way. Catching it early and treating it quickly can help save your smile. 

Your Aspen Dental team is here to help. We’ll evaluate your gums, explain your treatment options and create a plan that fits your needs. With upfront pricing and flexible scheduling, it’s care that works for your life. 

Think you’re seeing the signs of gum disease? Schedule a visit at Aspen Dental today.