Gum Disease Stages: What You Need To Know

Bleeding gums when you brush? Bad breath that won’t go away? It might be more than just poor brushing habits. Gum disease is incredibly common, but many people don’t realize they have it until it’s advanced. At Balcones Family Dental, we want to help patients in Austin catch gum disease early—because the sooner you address it, the easier it is to treat.

Stage 1: Gingivitis (The Warning Sign You Don’t Want to Ignore)

Gingivitis is the first and only reversible stage of gum disease. At this point, plaque buildup causes gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. The good news? There’s no permanent damage yet. With proper brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings, gums can return to a healthy state.

Signs of gingivitis:

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Persistent bad breath
• Slight gum tenderness or puffiness



Stage 2: Early Periodontitis (When Damage Begins)

If gingivitis isn’t treated, it progresses to early periodontitis. At this stage, plaque hardens into tartar, and bacteria begin attacking the bone supporting your teeth. Once bone loss starts, it can’t be reversed, but further damage can be controlled.

Signs of early periodontitis:

• Gums pulling away from teeth (receding gums)
• More noticeable bad breath
• Mild discomfort or gum sensitivity



Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis (Things Get Serious)

By now, gum infection is more aggressive and causing further bone loss. Spaces, or “pockets,” form between the gums and teeth, trapping bacteria. At this stage, deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) are often needed to prevent tooth loss.

Signs of moderate periodontitis:

• Gums appear more recessed
• Teeth feel slightly loose
• Increased gum tenderness or pain



Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis (Risk of Tooth Loss)

This is the most severe stage of gum disease. The infection has destroyed significant bone and tissue, making teeth unstable or loose. At this point, tooth loss is likely without aggressive periodontal treatment like surgery or gum grafts.

Signs of advanced periodontitis:

• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Pus between gums and teeth



Protect Your Smile at Balcones Family Dental in Austin, TX

Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight, but it also doesn’t go away on its own. The earlier it’s caught, the easier it is to manage. At Balcones Family Dental, our team is here to help keep your gums—and your smile—healthy for life. Noticed any warning signs? Schedule a checkup today and let’s stop gum disease in its tracks!

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Categorized in: Gum Disease