Conditions · Gum disease
Gum disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis — and why healthy gums matter for your whole body.
Gum disease is common and often painless in its early stages. Caught early it is reversible; left untreated it can lead to tooth loss and is linked to problems well beyond the mouth.
Understanding the two main forms of gum disease — and their impact on your general health.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest and mildest form of gum disease — inflammation of the gums. It usually arises when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up on the teeth and hardens into tartar. Common signs are red, swollen gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, and bad breath.
Causes: poor oral hygiene is the main one, but smoking, hormonal changes, some medications and nutritional deficiencies can all play a part.
What is periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a more severe, advanced form that develops if gingivitis is left untreated. It affects not just the gums but the structures that support the teeth, and can lead to tooth loss. Signs include gums pulling away from the teeth (recession), persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and pus between the teeth and gums.
Causes: like gingivitis it is largely driven by plaque. Risk factors include genetics, age, tobacco use, diabetes and certain illnesses.
The key differences
Severity: gingivitis is reversible with proper care; periodontitis can cause irreversible damage and needs more advanced dental treatment. Symptoms: gingivitis is usually mild, whereas periodontitis involves tooth mobility and bone loss. Treatment: gingivitis can often be managed by improving your daily cleaning; periodontitis may need professional cleaning, medication and sometimes surgery.
How gum disease affects your general health
Healthy gums matter for more than your mouth:
- Systemic inflammation — chronic gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and respiratory problems.
- Diabetes — poor gum health can make blood sugar harder to control, and diabetes can worsen gum conditions, creating a vicious cycle.
- Respiratory health — bacteria from gum disease can be breathed into the lungs, raising the risk of infection.
- Pregnancy — untreated gum disease is associated with a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
- Overall wellness — healthy gums support good nutrition and a stronger immune response.
Common questions
Gum disease — your questions answered
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis (the early stage) is reversible with good daily cleaning and professional help. Periodontitis (the advanced stage) can cause permanent damage, so the aim is to stop it getting worse.
What causes gum disease?
Mainly a build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth. Smoking, diabetes, some medications, hormonal changes and genetics can all increase the risk.
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Early signs are red or swollen gums and bleeding when you brush or floss. More advanced signs include receding gums, persistent bad breath and loose teeth.
Can gum disease affect the rest of my body?
Yes — it is linked with heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and pregnancy complications. Keeping your gums healthy supports your general health.
How do I prevent gum disease?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth daily, don’t smoke, and see your dentist for regular check-ups.
Keep your gums — and your health
Good daily cleaning is the single best thing you can do. See how to check your own gums, and which tools help.