Your gums are like the soft cushions that hold your teeth in place. When they’re healthy, they feel firm and pink. But when something’s wrong, your mouth starts sending signals—some are easy to spot, others are more sneaky. Knowing what these signs look like can help stop small problems from turning into big ones.
Gum infections don’t always start with pain. In fact, some signs are so mild, people don’t even notice until the damage has already begun. Here’s a clear look at the most common signs of infected gums—and what they actually mean.
Swollen Gum Tissue That Feels Puffy or Tender
When your gums are healthy, they lie flat against your teeth and feel smooth. But if they start to swell, puff up, or feel tender to the touch, it could mean something’s wrong. Infected gums get irritated easily, and swelling is often the first thing people notice. The tissue may even look like it’s bulging between the teeth.
If your gums feel sore when you press them or if they look puffier than usual, that’s your mouth waving a red flag. It’s trying to tell you that bacteria might be growing beneath the surface. This is a sign that should never be ignored. A quick visit to a dentist can stop an infection before it spreads deeper.
Bleeding During Brushing or Light Flossing
Gums shouldn’t bleed just because you brushed or used a little floss. If they do, that’s not normal—it’s a sign of irritation or infection. A little pink in the sink might seem harmless, but it often means the gums are inflamed or too sensitive. Healthy gums can handle a toothbrush without bleeding.
Bleeding might also show up when you eat crunchy food or even bite into something soft. If your gums bleed easily, it’s time to pay attention. This could mean plaque is sitting along the gumline and causing inflammation. A cleaning and checkup can help remove the bacteria and calm your gums down.
Persistent Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away
Everyone gets bad breath sometimes. But when it sticks around no matter how much you brush or rinse, it could point to a deeper problem. Gum infections create pockets where bacteria hide, and that buildup creates a strong, unpleasant smell.
Mouthwash might cover it for a bit, but it won’t fix the source. If bad breath lingers throughout the day—even after brushing—bacteria might be trapped under the gums. Treating the infection is the only way to clear it out and bring back that fresh feeling.
Receding Gumline Exposing More Tooth Surface
Look closely at your teeth. Do they seem longer than before? That might not be your imagination. Gum recession can slowly pull tissue away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s surface and even part of the root. This often means the gums are struggling to hold their ground due to infection.
Receding gums don’t always hurt at first, but they make teeth look uneven and increase the risk of decay. They also create tiny gaps where food and bacteria collect. If you notice your gumline creeping back, it’s time to ask your dentist about what’s causing it. Catching it early can prevent tooth loss later.
Discoloration or Dark Spots Along the Gum Edge
Healthy gums are usually pink and even-colored. But if you see darker patches, red streaks, or purplish spots around your gumline, that’s not normal. Infected gums can change color as blood flow increases or tissue starts to break down.
These dark areas may be easy to miss at first, especially if they’re small. But they’re often early signs of inflammation or even dead tissue. A color change in your gums should be taken seriously. A dentist can look closer and figure out whether it’s from an infection or another issue.
Pain While Chewing or Sensitivity to Pressure
If chewing feels uncomfortable or if your gums sting when you bite down, there could be more than just a sensitive tooth. Pain while eating can mean the gum tissue around one or more teeth is infected. The pressure from chewing pushes on the irritated area, making it more painful.
You might also notice a throbbing feeling or sharp pain in a certain spot. This pain usually doesn’t go away on its own. The longer the infection stays, the more damage it can do to the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place. Seeing your dentist early helps prevent more serious problems down the road.
Pus or Unusual Discharge Around the Gum Area
This is one of the more obvious signs—and one that shouldn’t be ignored. If you see pus or any unusual liquid coming from your gums, it means there’s an active infection. Pus is a mix of bacteria and dead white blood cells that build up when your body tries to fight infection.
Sometimes the pus leaks slowly, and other times you might feel a little bump or pressure in the area. Either way, it’s a clear sign that your gums need professional care. A dentist can clean out the infection, treat the area, and help stop the spread to other parts of your mouth.
Smiling Creek Dental Offers Gentle, Expert Gum Care to Stop Infection Before It Gets Worse
Your smile deserves to stay healthy and strong—and that starts with your gums. If you’ve noticed any of the signs listed above, even just one, don’t wait. Infected gums don’t heal on their own, but the good news is, with the right care, they can recover. That’s where the team at Smiling Creek Dental comes in. We’re experts at spotting early signs of gum trouble and treating them before they become serious problems.
From gentle cleanings to advanced care for gum infections, Smiling Creek takes a friendly, no-stress approach to oral health. We’ll explain what’s happening, how to treat it, and how to keep your mouth feeling fresh and clean. Your comfort comes first, and every visit feels more like a conversation than a procedure.
Contact us today to schedule your visit with Smiling Creek Dental and take the first step toward healthier gums and a brighter smile. Whether it’s your first time dealing with gum issues or you just want a second opinion, we’re here to help every step of the way.