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1 What are the signs of gum disease?
2 How is gum disease diagnosed?
 
(1) What are the signs of gum disease?

There are many signs of gum disease.

• Gums bleeding when brushing the teeth

• Red and swollen gums. Tender gums

• Gums pulling away from the teeth, exposing roots and creating recessions

• Pus between teeth and gums. Sudden swellings that are painful to the touch

• Loose teeth, or spaces suddenly appearing between teeth

• Teeth beginning to splay out.

• A change in the way your teeth fit together/a different bite

It is important to note you may have periodontal disease and not experience any of these symptoms. Periodontal disease is silent and chronic, rarely giving an advanced warning that tissue destruction is taking place. That is why it is important to have regular dental checkups.
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(2) How is gum disease diagnosed?
During a consultation or routine check up the dentist inspects the colour and firmness of the gums. Teeth are tested for looseness. The bite is checked. At some point, a small measuring instrument – a periodontal probe - is gently inserted between the tooth and gum to measure the depth of the pockets. Pockets are spaces between the tooth and gum, the deeper the pocket the worse the problem. This "periodontal" exam should be done at frequent intervals for all adults, especially when there is a history of periodontal disease in the immediate family.

X-rays should be taken at appropriate times to evaluate changes in the bone supporting the teeth.
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