Gum decay, known medically as periodontal disease, is a progressive bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. This condition begins as a reversible inflammation called gingivitis and, if left unaddressed, advances to the more destructive stage known as periodontitis. Understanding the visual progression of this disease is the first step toward effective treatment and preventing permanent damage to the jawbone and tooth support structures.
Healthy Gums Versus Early Visual Changes
Healthy gum tissue presents a specific appearance that serves as a useful benchmark for comparison. They should look firm and tightly hug the base of each tooth, often exhibiting a matte, stippled texture similar to the surface of an orange peel. The color is typically a pale or coral pink, though pigmentation can naturally vary depending on an individual’s ethnicity. Healthy gums do not bleed during routine activities like brushing or flossing, indicating a lack of inflammation.
The initial stage of gum decay, gingivitis, is characterized by subtle but noticeable visual shifts. The firm texture begins to soften, and the gums may appear puffy or swollen. The healthy pink color darkens to a bright red, dark red, or even a purplish shade.
This inflammation is an immune response to the accumulation of bacterial plaque along the gumline. A defining visual sign of this early stage is bleeding when brushing or flossing, which is not a normal sign of proper hygiene. The gums may also appear shiny as the tissue swells and stretches over the surface.
Structural Damage and Severe Appearance
When gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, the visual signs move beyond simple inflammation to include structural damage. One of the most obvious indicators is gum recession, which is the pulling back of the gum tissue from the tooth surface. This recession makes the teeth look visibly longer because the root surface is becoming exposed.
The exposed tooth root may also appear a different color, often slightly yellow, compared to the white enamel-covered crown. As the gums detach from the tooth, they form periodontal pockets, which are deep spaces that collect plaque and tartar. These gaps between the tooth and the gum line may sometimes appear shadowed or dark due to the depth and debris accumulation.
Advanced infection can lead to the visual presence of exudate, or pus, around the gum line. This is often seen as a small, swollen bump, blister, or boil on the gums, referred to as a periodontal abscess. The pus itself may be visible, sometimes white or yellowish, and can drain into the mouth, causing a bad taste.
The destruction of the underlying bone, a consequence of advanced periodontitis, also manifests visually. This bone loss causes the teeth to lose their stable support, leading to teeth shifting or the formation of visible gaps between teeth. In severe cases, the teeth may become noticeably loose or mobile.
Next Steps After Identifying Gum Decay
If you recognize any of the persistent visual changes described, such as swelling, chronic bleeding, or signs of gum recession, scheduling a professional dental checkup is essential. Gum decay, especially periodontitis, is not a condition that can be reversed with improved home care alone. A dental professional will perform a comprehensive examination, which includes periodontal probing to measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth.
They may also take X-rays to assess the extent of any bone loss that is not visible on the surface. While waiting for your appointment, maintaining gentle but thorough oral hygiene is important. Use a soft-bristled brush and proper flossing technique to minimize irritation. Do not stop brushing or flossing, even if minor bleeding occurs, as consistent removal of plaque is essential to manage the initial inflammation. These temporary measures are meant to prevent the condition from worsening until professional intervention can begin.