Gum Disease Explained: Early Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in the UK, yet many people don’t realise they have it until it becomes more serious. In its early stages, gum disease is often painless, which means it can easily be ignored. However, spotting the warning signs early and seeking treatment can prevent long-term damage to your teeth and gums.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by a build-up of plaque along the gum line. Plaque contains bacteria that irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can progress from mild inflammation to more severe damage affecting the bone that supports your teeth.

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis – the early, reversible stage

• Periodontitis – a more advanced stage that can lead to tooth loss

Early Signs of Gum Disease

Recognising the early symptoms of gum disease is key to stopping it from getting worse. Common signs include:

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

• Gums that appear shiny or inflamed

• Increased sensitivity around the gum line

Bleeding gums are often dismissed as normal, but healthy gums should not bleed. If you notice this happening regularly, it’s important to book a dental appointment.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque to build up. Other contributing factors include:

• Smoking or vaping

• Poorly controlled diabetes

• Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy

• Certain medications

• Irregular dental check-ups and hygiene visits

Why Early Treatment Matters

When caught early, gum disease can usually be treated with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene at home. However, if it progresses, treatment becomes more complex and may involve deep cleaning or specialist care.

Advanced gum disease can lead to loose teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss. It has also been linked to wider health issues, including heart disease and diabetes, making early intervention even more important.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In early cases, your dentist or hygienist may recommend:

• A thorough scale and polish

• Improved brushing and flossing techniques

• Regular hygienist appointments

For more advanced cases, deeper cleaning beneath the gum line may be required.

Protecting Your Gum Health

The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, and seeing a hygienist regularly can make a significant difference.

At Sharples Dental, we help patients identify and treat gum disease early, protecting both their oral health and their smile. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs, don’t ignore them — book an appointment with our team today.