Redness: Healthy gums are usually pink and firm. Bacterial infections of your gums cause a redness in the gums next to the teeth.
Swelling: Healthy gums have a firm orange peel like surface. Gum infections cause the gums to swell and be puffy and soft.
Bleeding when cleaning your teeth: Healthy gums do not bleed during gentle but accurate brushing and flossing. Sick gums will bleed during eating, brushing and flossing, with even gentle pressure. Even small amounts of bleeding may be apparent when expelling tooth paste during home care procedures. Severe infections may ooze pus, which may not be as easy to detect yourself.
Loose Teeth: Healthy gums and jaw bones hold your teeth firmly. Neglected gum infections can soften gums and destroy the supporting bone around your teeth. As the bone destruction progresses, your teeth can become loose and painful. Severe and long standing gum infections can cause tooth aches and tooth loss.
Gum Recession: Well maintained gums, cover your roots completely, and are much more attractive than the "long in the tooth" appearance that results from recession. Exposed roots can be very sensitive and are more susceptible to tooth decay.
Bad Breath: There are several causes of Bad Breath. When your gums are infected, pus, blood and other fluids found in the deep pockets around your teeth stagnate and decompose. An embarassing bad odor may then bother you and those around you.
