Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, affects the tissues that support the teeth. It ranges from gingivitis, an early form of gum inflammation, to periodontitis, which can damage the bone and other structures supporting the teeth. [1][2][3]
Medically reviewed by Dr. Walter Kostrzewski, DMD
Dr. Kostrzewski has more than two decades of experience in dentistry and reviews the dental information published by ACE Dental Resource.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Dental plaque is a bacterial film that forms continuously on teeth. If it is not removed regularly, it can contribute to inflammation of the gums. Plaque can harden into calculus (tartar), which requires professional removal. Tobacco use, diabetes, genetics, age, and other factors can increase risk. [1]
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
| Condition | What happens | Can it be reversed? |
|---|---|---|
| Gingivitis | Inflamed gums that may be red, swollen, or bleed easily. | Often reversible with effective plaque control and professional care. |
| Periodontitis | Inflammation with destruction of supporting tissues and potentially bone loss. | Existing structural damage is not simply reversed, but the disease can be managed and progression slowed with treatment. |
Signs and Symptoms
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gum recession
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain or difficulty chewing
Gum disease can be relatively painless, so the absence of pain does not rule it out. [1][2]
How Is Gum Disease Diagnosed?
A dentist or dental hygienist may examine the gums, measure periodontal pockets, assess tooth mobility and other findings, review risk factors, and use dental X-rays when appropriate to evaluate supporting bone. [1]
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Treatment depends on severity. Gingivitis may improve with better plaque control and professional cleaning. Periodontitis generally requires professional periodontal treatment in addition to daily home care. Treatment can include scaling and root planing, other locally delivered or adjunctive therapies when indicated, and periodontal surgery for selected advanced cases. [1][2]
Laser treatment should not be presented as a universal replacement for established periodontal therapy; treatment decisions should be based on the individual diagnosis and current periodontal evidence.
Risk Factors
| Risk factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Tobacco use | Strongly associated with periodontal disease and can impair treatment response. |
| Diabetes | Associated with increased risk and severity of periodontal disease. |
| Poor plaque control | Allows plaque to accumulate and promotes gingival inflammation. |
| Genetic and other medical factors | Can influence susceptibility and disease severity. |
Gum Disease and Overall Health
Periodontal disease has been associated with several systemic conditions, but association does not automatically mean that gum disease causes those conditions. The safest patient message is to treat gum disease as an important oral-health condition in its own right and discuss relevant medical conditions with both your dentist and physician.
Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?
Gingivitis can often be prevented and treated with effective daily plaque control and professional care. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, avoiding tobacco, and attending dental visits appropriate to your risk are central preventive measures. [1][2]
For the practical details of brushing, interdental cleaning, water flossers, and other daily-care tools, see our Dental Hygiene guide. For the broader prevention strategy, see Preventive Dentistry.
When Should I See a Dentist?
Arrange an examination if you have persistent bleeding, swelling, gum recession, loose or shifting teeth, persistent bad breath, pain while chewing, or other changes around the gums. Prompt assessment can help determine whether the problem is gingivitis, periodontitis, or another condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gum disease contagious?
Gum disease itself is not generally described as a contagious infection that spreads from person to person in the way a cold does. It develops from a complex interaction between oral biofilm, the immune response, and individual risk factors.
Can gum disease cause bad breath?
Yes. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, although halitosis has many possible causes. Our Bad Breath guide covers the broader causes.
Can periodontitis be cured?
Periodontitis is generally managed rather than simply cured. Treatment aims to control infection and inflammation, stabilize the disease, and preserve the supporting structures of the teeth. [2]