Your gums are the soft tissue that protects the roots of your teeth and helps to hold your teeth in place. Gums are susceptible to bacteria and plaque, just as teeth are. Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease, and it can have serious consequences for your entire mouth. Recognizing the signs of periodontal disease can help you get the treatment you need before you develop irreversible tooth and gum damage. Here are four symptoms that can signify periodontal disease:

1. Bleeding Gums

In most circumstances, your gums should not bleed. However, many people notice bleeding gums after flossing their teeth. Flossing too vigorously may cause tissue damage that leads to minor bleeding, and in many cases, bleeding will go away if you floss more regularly. If your gums continue to bleed after you floss or if they bleed at other times, you should raise your concerns to your dentist because bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis.

2. Receding Gums

Periodontal disease can cause a person's gums to recede. If you notice that the roots of your teeth are showing, you may be suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis. Your gums help to protect your teeth, and receding gums may interfere with that function. Your dentist can test the depth of your gums using a handheld probe. Insufficient gum depth can help your dentist make an accurate diagnosis of periodontal disease so they can proceed with the correct treatment.

3. Loose Teeth

As periodontal disease progresses, it can cause your teeth to become loose. Adult teeth should not be loose for any reason. People with this symptom will require prompt treatment to avoid tooth loss. Removing bacteria, plaque, and infections from below the gum line can help to reverse periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss.

4. Tender Or Painful Gums

Gum tenderness can be a sign of periodontal disease as well. If your gums are painful when chewing, drinking, or brushing your teeth, you may suffer from periodontal disease. Some over-the-counter treatments, such as toothpaste and mouthwash designed to address gum sensitivity, can help you manage your symptoms. However, it's still vital to have your teeth and gums examined by a dentist who can make a proper diagnosis.

Dentists can treat periodontal disease through tooth scaling, root planing, and flap surgery. The type of treatment you need will depend on the severity of your gum disease. Your dentist can work with you to come up with a periodontal disease treatment plan.