Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight. It develops gradually, often with mild symptoms that are easy to miss — until it becomes a serious issue. Whether you’re trying to stop early signs or manage an advanced case, understanding the stages of gum disease can help you act at the right time.
This guide breaks down the four main stages — from mild inflammation to potential tooth loss — so you know what to look for and how to respond.
🦷 Stage 1: Gingivitis
What it is:
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and the only one that’s fully reversible.
Symptoms:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Tenderness or mild irritation
Cause:
Plaque buildup along the gumline. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which traps bacteria and worsens inflammation.
What to do:
Improve your oral hygiene — brush twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash. Catch it here, and you can still reverse the damage.
🟠 Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
What it is:
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress into early periodontitis — a more serious form of gum disease involving bone damage.
Symptoms:
- Persistent gum inflammation
- Slight gum recession
- Formation of gum pockets (spaces between gum and tooth)
- Mild bone loss visible on X-rays
Cause:
Bacteria have spread below the gumline and begun damaging the bone that supports your teeth.
What to do:
You’ll likely need a professional cleaning or scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gums. At this point, home care alone won’t fix it.
In certain stages, the bacterial load increases — raising questions like: is gum disease contagious.
🟡 Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
What it is:
At this stage, the damage becomes more pronounced and difficult to reverse.
Symptoms:
- Deeper gum pockets
- Noticeable gum recession
- Wobbling or shifting teeth
- Ongoing bad breath
Cause:
Continued bacterial infection erodes more bone and connective tissue.
What to do:
Professional periodontal treatment is essential — possibly including laser therapy or surgical cleaning. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent damage.
🔴 Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
What it is:
The most severe stage of gum disease. At this point, tooth loss is a serious risk.
Symptoms:
- Loose or missing teeth
- Severe pain when chewing
- Major gum recession
- Pus or drainage around the gums
- Facial bone changes or shifting bite
Cause:
Severe infection and inflammation destroy the bone and tissues holding teeth in place.
What to do:
You may need surgery, tooth extraction, or dental implants. Immediate specialist care is crucial to stop further progression.
Severe periodontitis isn’t just about your mouth — it’s been linked to serious health issues. Here’s how gum disease can affect your overall health.
Related:
To understand the causes and treatment paths across all stages, explore our full gum disease resource.
Final Thoughts: Catch It Early, Act Fast
Gum disease gets more serious — and harder to treat — with every stage. But the earlier you catch it, the better your chances of full recovery. If you’re noticing signs like bleeding gums or bad breath, don’t wait. A dental checkup and better oral hygiene could save your teeth — and your health.
