Gum disease: signs and care

Last reviewed: 2 November 2026

Gum disease happens when the tissue around and supporting your teeth becomes inflamed. Early gum disease can often be reversed with good care, so it helps to know the signs. This guide is general information only. See a dental practitioner if you are worried about your gums.

The two main types

Healthdirect describes two main types of gum disease:

• Gingivitis. A common and mild form, caused by plaque building up along the gumline. Gums may be red and swollen and bleed easily when you brush. Healthdirect says gingivitis can be treated and prevented with good mouth care, and can be cured without permanent damage.
• Periodontitis. A more severe form that can develop if gingivitis is not treated. Spaces can form between the teeth and gums, gums can shrink back from the teeth, and the bone supporting the teeth can be lost over time. Healthdirect says periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be controlled with the help of a dental professional or periodontist.

Signs to look out for

Healthdirect lists these symptoms of gum disease:

• red and swollen gums
• gums that bleed when you brush
• bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• gums that are receding (pulling away from the teeth)
• sensitive teeth
• loose teeth

Healthdirect says to see a dental professional as soon as possible if you have swollen or bleeding gums, or if your teeth feel loose.

What causes it

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that builds up on the teeth and along the gumline. If plaque is not brushed off, it can harden into calculus (tartar). Healthdirect says tartar can only be removed by a dental professional.

Healthdirect says you are more likely to develop gum disease if you:

• smoke or drink alcohol
• are stressed or have poor nutrition
• have diabetes
• take certain medicines, such as those that cause a dry mouth
• are pregnant or going through puberty
• have a family history of gum disease

How it is diagnosed and treated

Healthdirect says your dental professional will ask about your symptoms, examine your teeth and gums and may recommend X-rays. Treatment includes cleaning plaque and tartar from the teeth and, if needed, treating the roots of the teeth to remove bacteria. You will also get advice on cleaning your teeth well at home.

This care may be provided by a dentist, dental hygienist or oral health therapist. See what a dental hygienist does. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, who is a dentist registered as a specialist in periodontics.

Helping to prevent gum disease

Healthdirect suggests:

• gently brushing your teeth and gums twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• continuing to brush gently, even if your gums bleed
• flossing every day
• visiting your dental professional regularly for check-ups and cleaning

See what happens at a dental check-up.

Gum health and general health

Healthdirect says there is growing evidence that poor oral health is linked to other conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, lung conditions and mouth cancer. If you have a health condition such as diabetes, tell your dental practitioner, as they will ask about your medical history.

Questions to ask

• Do I have gingivitis or periodontitis, and how advanced is it?
• How often should I come back for cleaning and review?
• Is there anything about my cleaning routine I should change?
• Would a referral to a periodontist help in my case?
• What will the treatment cost, and what are the item numbers for my health fund?

General information, not medical or dental advice. Speak to a registered dental practitioner about your situation.