Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is characterized as an inflammation of the gingiva. Gingivitis symptoms include:

Gums That Are Red or Swollen: Gums that are redder, swollen, or tender than normal may indicate gingivitis.

Bleeding gums: This is a common sign that you have gingivitis. It can happen when you brush, floss, or eat crunchy foods.

Bad Breath: Persistent, bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be caused by plaque and tartar accumulation.

Periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease, is characterized by irreversible destruction of the supporting structures and gums of the teeth. Periodontitis symptoms include:

Receding gums: Gums that pull away from teeth creating pockets between teeth and gums.

Gum recession: Exposed roots of teeth due to receding gingiva, which can increase tooth sensitivity as well as the risk of decay.

Loose Teeth: If you have loose teeth, it may be due to bone loss or damage in the supporting structures.

Pus or Drainage: If you notice pus or drainage, it could be a sign of advanced periodontitis.

Changes to Bite: These are changes to the way you bite and chew your food, caused by either shifting teeth or changes in your bone structure.

When the gum tissue pulls away from teeth roots, it causes them to be more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Gum recession can be characterized by:

Exposed tooth roots: visible root surfaces due to receding gingiva, which can appear longer than usual.

Tooth Sensitivity: An increased sensitivity to foods or beverages that are hot, cold, acidic, sweet, and/or sweet along the gumline.

Gum Discomfort: Tenderness or discomfort along the gumline. This is most common when brushing flossing or eating certain foods.

A gingival infection occurs when bacteria infect the gum tissue and cause localized swelling and inflammation. Gum infection symptoms include:

Localized Swelling (Localized Swelling): A swelling, redness, or tenderness that occurs in a particular area of the gums. This is often accompanied by pain or discomfort.

Pain or Discomfort: A sharp or throbbing ache in the affected area that may get worse when you chew or apply pressure to your gums.

Abscess: A pus- or fluid-filled sac (abscess) that may rupture, releasing a foul-smelling or foul-tasting discharge.

Also known as gingival hyperplasia (swollen gums), this condition occurs when the gum tissue grows and covers the surface of the teeth. Gum overgrowth can cause:

Excessive Gum Tissue: Bulging or excessively grown gums covering a portion of the teeth and making them look shorter or stubby.

Difficulty Cleaning Teeth: The gums or teeth may be difficult to clean due to excessive tissue. This can lead plaque and tartar to build up.

Changes to Bite: This can be due to the position of your gums.

Bad breath can be caused by gum disease, oral health problems, or other factors. Halitosis symptoms include:

Persistent bad breath: Bad-smelling breath persists even after regular brushing and flossing.

Metallic or foul taste: A persistent metallic, or unsavory taste in the mouth. This is often accompanied by a dry mouth and a thick coating of the tongue.

Coated Tongue: A coating of white or yellowish color on the surface, which may harbor bacteria and cause bad breath.