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5 min readMarch 2026Gingivitis: Symptoms You're Ignoring (But Shouldn't)
"It bleeds a little when brushing, but that's probably normal" — heard this argument? It's not normal. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gingivitis, which untreated leads to tooth loss.
Gingivitis symptoms — what to look for
🟡 Early symptoms (gingivitis)
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- Reddening of gums — healthy gums are pink, not red
- Swollen gums — they look full or puffy
- Gentle pain when touching gums
- Bad breath that doesn't go away after brushing
🔴 Advanced symptoms (periodontitis)
- Visible gum recession — teeth appear longer
- Exposed tooth necks — increased sensitivity
- Loose teeth
- Gum abscess — swelling with discharge
Causes of gingivitis
- Dental plaque — bacteria release toxins that irritate gums
- Tartar — hardened plaque that can't be removed by brushing alone
- Smoking — increases risk and slows healing
- Diabetes — systemic disease that intensifies inflammation
Treating gingivitis
✅ Early stage — you can do a lot yourself
- Brush teeth twice daily for at least 2 minutes
- Daily flossing or interdental brushes
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash rinse (short-term)
- Professional cleaning at the dentist — tartar removal (scaling)
🏥 Advanced stage — a visit is necessary
- Scaling and root planing (debridement)
- Local or systemic antibiotic therapy
- Periodontal surgery in advanced cases
Check your gum health online
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Check dental photos and see whether you should contact a dentist sooner
5 phone photos. Preliminary AI information in about a minute.
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