Gum health
Gum Disease: Early Signs, Risk Factors and When to See a Dentist
Gum disease often starts quietly, with gums that bleed a little when you brush. Caught early, it can often be turned around with daily care. Here’s what to look for, who is most at risk, and when to see a dentist.
The CDC describes periodontal (gum) disease as a broad term for conditions that involve inflammation and infection of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth.[1]
Gingivitis and periodontitis: two stages
Gingivitis is the milder form. The gums become red and swollen and may bleed easily. The CDC says it can be reversed with proper care.[1] The NIDCR agrees that early gum disease, caused by plaque buildup, can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.[2]
Periodontitis is more serious: a long-lasting inflammation that slowly damages the gums and bone that hold the teeth in place. It can’t be reversed, but the CDC says it can be slowed down and managed with professional care.[1] More advanced gum disease needs a dentist or dental hygienist.[2]
Signs to watch for
Look out for any of these:[1, 2]
- Gums that are red, swollen or tender
- Gums that bleed easily, for example when you brush or floss
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth
- Loose or sensitive teeth
- Pain when chewing, or a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Bad breath that won’t go away
Gum disease isn’t always painful, so don’t wait for pain before you get these checked.
How common is it?
Very. According to the CDC, about 4 in 10 U.S. adults aged 30 or older had periodontitis in 2009–2014. Among adults 65 and older the figure was about 60%, and among smokers aged 30 or older it was 62%.[1]
Who is most at risk
The NIDCR names smoking or other tobacco use as the most significant risk factor.[2] Others listed by the CDC and NIDCR include:[1, 2]
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Poor daily cleaning of the teeth
- Some medicines
- Stress
- Genes (gum disease can run in families)
- Crooked teeth that are harder to clean
- Hormonal changes in women
- Some illnesses, and poor nutrition or obesity
What you can do
The CDC’s advice for keeping gums healthy: brush twice a day, floss every day, get regular professional cleanings and see your dentist at least once a year.[1] The NIDCR adds fluoride toothpaste and quitting tobacco.[2]
If you notice any of the signs above, book a dental visit rather than waiting for your next checkup. A dentist can measure how healthy your gums are and tell you whether daily care is enough or you need more help.
Common questions
Is it normal for gums to bleed when I brush?
Gums that bleed easily are one of the common signs of gum disease, so it’s worth mentioning to your dentist.[1]
Can gum disease be reversed?
Does smoking really make a difference?
Can a supplement fix gum disease?
No. Gum disease needs daily cleaning and care from a dentist. Some supplements are sold for gum health, but none replaces that care. If you’re thinking about one, our guide to reading a supplement label shows what to check.
Free: 5 questions to ask before you buy any dental supplement
A one-page checklist to help you judge any dental supplement before you spend money on it. It appears on the next page as soon as you sign up.
Sources
- About periodontal (gum) disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 15, 2024. www.cdc.gov
- Periodontal (gum) disease. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH). Last reviewed August 2026. www.nidcr.nih.gov
This guide is general information, not medical or dental advice. Talk to your dentist, doctor or pharmacist about your own health, especially if you take medication or have a health condition.