December 20255 min read
Gums get far less attention than teeth — until they cause trouble. Yet gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it's almost entirely preventable. The key is catching it early.
The earliest sign: bleeding Healthy gums don't bleed when you brush or floss. If yours do, it's gingivitis — the first, fully reversible stage of gum disease. It's caused by plaque building up along the gum line, and at this stage a professional cleaning plus better home care usually clears it completely.
When it becomes serious Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation reaches the bone that holds your teeth. Bone lost to periodontitis doesn't grow back on its own, and teeth can loosen over time. Warning signs include receding gums, persistent bad breath and gaps appearing between teeth.
How to protect your gums - Clean between your teeth daily — this is where gum disease usually starts. - Brush gently along the gum line, not just the teeth. - Don't smoke; it's one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease. - Keep your six-month hygiene visits, where we remove tartar and measure gum health.
How we treat it For early disease, a deep ultrasonic cleaning beneath the gum line, sometimes with laser support, is enough. More advanced cases may need targeted therapy or soft-tissue grafting to restore lost gum. Either way, the earlier we start, the simpler and more successful the treatment.
If your gums bleed, don't wait. A quick periodontal check now can save a tooth later.