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Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Authors:
  • Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms of periodontal disease may include:

  • Red, swollen, puffy gums
  • Tendency for gums to bleed, particularly with tooth brushing and flossing
  • Tender, sore gums
  • Tooth sensitivity to very hot or very cold food or liquid
  • Persistent bad breath—halitosis
  • Pain during chewing
  • Significant dental plaque
  • Loose teeth
  • Shrunken, receding gum line
  • Swelling of face and jaw
  • Pockets or gaps between the teeth and the gums
  • Abscesses, or pockets of infection
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

References

  • Gum disease symptoms. American Academy of Periodontology website. Available at: https://www.perio.org/consumer/gum-disease-symptoms.htm. Accessed August 17, 2016.
  • Gum (Periodontal) Disease. NIH SeniorHealth website. Available at: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/periodontaldisease/riskfactorsandprevention/01.html. Accessed August 17, 2016.
  • Periodontal Disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/periodontal_disease/. Updated March 10, 2015. Accessed August 17. 2016.
  • Periodontal (gum) disease: Causes, symptoms, and treatments. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website. Available at: http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm#howDoI. Accessed August 17. 2016.

Contributors

  • EBSCO Medical Review Board
Last Updated:
2021-02-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.