Teeth usually get the spotlight when it comes to dental health, but gums quietly do just as much to support a smile. Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection that damages the tissues and bone holding your teeth in place. It begins quietly but can progress into serious problems like gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.
The earlier you recognize the signs—and the earlier your dental team can step in—the easier it is to treat.
Early Warning Signs
Periodontal disease doesn’t usually cause sharp pain in the beginning, which is why it’s easy to miss. Keep an eye out for changes like:
Bleeding gums – Brushing or flossing shouldn’t cause bleeding.
Red, swollen gums – Puffiness and tenderness are signs of irritation.
Persistent bad breath – Bacteria beneath the gumline can create odors brushing won’t eliminate.
Receding gums – Teeth may start to look longer as gums pull back.
Tooth sensitivity – Exposed roots can make teeth more sensitive to temperature.
Loose or shifting teeth – Advanced disease affects the bone that supports your teeth.
Even one of these symptoms is reason enough to get checked by your dentist.
How Dentists Measure Gum Health
As part of a comprehensive exam, your dentist checks the space between the tooth and gum. In a healthy mouth, that space is shallow—usually 3 millimeters or less—and the gums don’t bleed when measured.
When gums are inflamed, the space can deepen. With gingivitis, it’s often around 4 millimeters, and bleeding or swelling may be present. In more advanced cases, the space can reach 5 millimeters or more, creating what’s known as a periodontal pocket. At this stage, X-rays may also reveal bone loss around the teeth.
These measurements help track changes over time and determine whether gum disease is present, how advanced it is, and what treatment will help.
How Periodontal Disease Progresses
Gum disease begins with gingivitis, where gums become irritated from plaque buildup. At this stage, it’s often reversible with professional cleanings and improved home care.
If left untreated, gingivitis advances to periodontitis. Here, bacteria spread deeper, pockets grow larger, and bone begins to break down. In advanced cases, teeth may become loose or shift out of place.
Regular dental visits make it much easier to catch and stop gum disease before it reaches these later stages.
Risk Factors That Raise Concerns
While anyone can develop gum disease, certain factors increase risk:
Smoking or tobacco use
Diabetes and other health conditions
Medications that reduce saliva flow
Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause
Family history of gum disease
Stress or lack of sleep, which affect immune response
If you fall into any of these categories, keeping up with dental visits becomes even more important.
Everyday Habits That Protect Your Gums
Small, daily choices protect gum health and complement professional care. Try to:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
Use an antibacterial mouth rinse to reduce bacteria
Eat a balanced diet and limit sugar
Stay hydrated to help wash away food and bacteria
Consistency with these habits keeps your gums healthier and lowers the chances of disease progression.
Gum Care in San Marcos at Mission Hills Family Dental
At Mission Hills Family Dental in San Marcos, CA, Dr. Nicolle Miller and Dr. Kathleen T. Doppenberg take gum health seriously. By checking pocket depths, reviewing X-rays, and spotting subtle changes, they catch problems early—before they become harder to treat.
If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or any changes in your smile, now is the time to act. Call Mission Hills Family Dental today to schedule an appointment. Together, we’ll keep your gums healthy, your teeth strong, and your smile lasting.