Gum Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Gum Disease?
A dentist, a doctor who cares for teeth and gums, usually treats gum disease. Your dentist may send you to a periodontist, a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is gum disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection that causes inflammation of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, is an early form of gum disease. Periodontitis is the more advanced form, and it involves bone and tooth attachment loss. If left untreated, gum disease can spread to the bones that support the teeth, making it painful to chew. In the worst cases, teeth may become loose or need to be removed.
Symptoms
Early symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
- Bright red or reddish-purple gums.
- Swollen gums.
- Bad breath.
Later symptoms of periodontitis can include:
- Gums that have receded, or pulled back.
- Loose or shifting teeth.
- Gaps between the teeth and gums.
- Tooth sensitivity.
Gum disease is often painless, so you may not notice it at first.
Causes and who gets it
Gum disease is typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits. These habits let plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, build up on the teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar, which only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove. The bacteria in plaque and tartar trigger inflammation that damages the gums and supporting tissues. Smoking or using tobacco is the most significant risk factor.
Other risk factors include:
- Older age.
- Diabetes.
- Genetics.
- Pregnancy, because hormonal changes make the gums more sensitive.
- Misaligned teeth, rough edges of fillings, and ill-fitting or unclean mouth appliances.
Periodontitis is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults.
How doctors diagnose it
A dentist or dental hygienist can diagnose gum disease. They look at your gums and teeth and ask about your medical history. A dentist uses a probe to closely examine your gums. This helps tell whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis. Dental x-rays show the loss of supporting bone. Healthy gums are pink and firm.
Treatment
The main goal of treatment is to control the infection. Early gum disease caused by plaque can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing. People with periodontal disease need treatment from a dentist or dental hygienist. The dentist may do scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning of the affected tooth. The dentist may also prescribe medication such as an oral rinse. In advanced cases, surgery may be needed. Surgery may open and clean deep pockets in the gums, build support for loose teeth, or remove a tooth. Any treatment needs good daily oral health care at home. Tobacco use can make treatment less successful, so the dentist may suggest quitting tobacco. For periodontitis, bleeding and tenderness of the gums should go away within 3 to 4 weeks of treatment. You need careful home brushing and flossing for your entire life so the problem does not return.
When to see a doctor
See your dentist if you have signs of gum disease. Contact your dentist if you have red, swollen gums, especially if you have not had a routine cleaning and exam in the last 6 months. Gum disease can lead to an infection or abscess (a pocket of pus) of the gums or jaw bones.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can check your mouth, look at your overall health, and refer you to a dentist or periodontist.
Common questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum disease can often be reversed. Daily brushing and flossing are the main steps.
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, while periodontitis is more advanced and involves bone and tooth attachment loss. Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes, it can. Periodontitis is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gingivitis, an early form of gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Visit your dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning, and quit all forms of tobacco.
Does gum disease hurt?
Not always, because gum disease is often painless. In most cases, the gums are painless or only mildly tender.
Sources
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research - Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- MedlinePlus - Periodontitis
- MedlinePlus - Gingivitis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
