• Your gums bleed easily, for example when you brush and floss or even when you eat.
• Your gums are red, swollen, or tender.
• You have bad breath that does not go away.
• You have an unpleasant taste in your mouth that does not go away.
• Your gums have pulled away from the teeth.
• You find pus between your teeth and gums.
• Your teeth are loose.
• There is a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite down or a change in the fit of your partial dentures.

Gum disease is usually painless, so you may not know you have it until you experience one or more of the above signs. If you experience any of the above signs, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Some medications may cause your gums to be swollen or to bleed, or alter your taste perception. Tell your dentist about any medication you are taking.