Bleeding gums –A periodontal infection often causes bleeding when you brush, floss, or eat. The bacteria in plaque create toxins that infect and inflame the tissues, making them bleed easily. Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.

Red and swollen gums – Gums should never be red or puffy. A periodontal infection may be present if the gums are swollen, red or painful for no apparent reason.

Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth – Bad breath can come from the back of the tongue, the lungs and stomach, the food we eat, or smoking, but it can also be due to old food bits that stay between the teeth and under the gums. The more bacteria and debris that collect in the deep gum pockets, the worse the smell

Loose teeth – Caused by bone loss, teeth that were once firmly attached to the jawbone become loose or may shift in position.

New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.

Pus around the teeth and gums – This is a sign that there is an infection present. The pus is a result of the body trying to fight the bacterial infection.

Receding gums, longer looking teeth – Loss of gum around a tooth.

Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Pain when chewing or sensitivity to hot or cold foods – Caused by the gum irritation and recession of the gums