You brush as usual, then notice pink in the sink or breath that still smells off despite minty toothpaste. These subtle signs could indicate early gum disease, a common infection caused by plaque bacteria that inflames the tissue around your teeth.
At Metairie Dental Centre, we often see patients from Metairie and surrounding areas who are surprised to learn that gum disease can start quietly. Catching it early matters because the first stage (often called gingivitis) can usually be reversed with proper care. The tricky part is that many early signs are painless, so it’s easy to ignore them until bigger problems show up.
Early signs of gum disease you can spot at home
Early symptoms don’t always mean you have gum disease, but patterns matter. If the same sign keeps coming back for more than a week, it’s worth paying attention, especially if you live in Metairie and haven’t had a recent dental exam.
Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Slight bleeding when flossing can occur, but frequent bleeding indicates gum inflammation. Healthy gums generally don’t bleed during brushing or flossing.
Use a soft toothbrush, lighten your pressure, and keep flossing gently. Stopping flossing can allow more plaque to build up. If bleeding continues, it’s time to schedule an exam.
Red, swollen, tender gums or gums that look shiny
Healthy gums usually look firm and pale pink. When gums appear red, puffy, tender, or shiny, they may be inflamed along the gumline.
If swelling lasts longer than a week or worsens instead of improving, that’s a strong reason to call us at (504) 455-4660 for an evaluation.
Bad breath that keeps coming back or a bad taste in your mouth
Persistent bad breath can come from bacteria collecting around irritated gums. A quick self-check: if morning breath never improves during the day, or you notice a bad taste even after brushing, your gums may need professional attention.
Mouthwash can temporarily mask odor, but it does not remove the underlying cause.
Gum recession, “longer” looking teeth, or new tooth sensitivity
If your teeth look longer than before or feel sensitive to cold, your gums may be receding, exposing the root surface. Recession can also result from aggressive brushing, but it still warrants a dental check to ensure gum disease is not overlooked.
Signs gum disease may be getting worse (do not ignore these)
When symptoms move beyond mild irritation, gum disease may be progressing toward periodontitis. At this stage, the infection can begin to damage the bone and support structures around the teeth.
Loose teeth, a shifting bite, or changes in spacing
If a tooth feels loose, your bite feels “off,” or food starts getting stuck in new spaces, don’t wait it out. These changes can happen quietly and may worsen quickly without treatment.
Pus, sores, or pain around the gumline
Pus, a pimple-like bump on the gum, or sores near a tooth can signal active infection. Pain often appears late, so lack of pain does not mean the problem is minor. Call promptly if you notice these symptoms.
When to call your dentist and what to expect at the visit
If symptoms recur or persist for more than a week, schedule a dental visit. During your appointment, your dentist will check for inflammation, measure gum pockets, and may take X-rays if needed. You’ll receive guidance on home care, and if deeper buildup is present, a deeper cleaning may be recommended.
Call within 24 to 48 hours if you notice any of the following
- Pus or a gum “pimple”
- Swelling that is spreading
- Fever
- A suddenly loose tooth
- Severe pain
- Bleeding that won’t stop
Questions to ask so you leave with a clear plan
- Do I have gingivitis or periodontitis?
- How deep are my gum pockets?
- What should I do at home, and what should I stop doing?
- How often should I schedule cleanings?
- Do I need a deep cleaning or additional treatment?
Conclusion
Bleeding gums, redness or swelling, persistent bad breath, and gum recession are common early signs of gum disease. The key takeaway is simple: early care is easier, more comfortable, and helps protect your teeth in the long term. If a symptom lasts more than a week or keeps returning, getting checked sooner can prevent more serious problems.
Schedule a gum health exam in Metairie
If you’re concerned about bleeding gums, bad breath, or other signs of gum disease, Metairie Dental Centre is here to help patients in Metairie protect their oral health. Call (504) 455-4660 to schedule an appointment or visit us at 1304 Clearview Pkwy Metairie, Louisiana to get clear answers and a personalized treatment plan.