Gum Health Check: Early Signs of Periodontal Disease

Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile — but gum disease often begins silently. In its earliest stage, you might not feel pain or notice major changes, which is why regular dental visits and gum health checks are so important.



At Dr. Colleen L. Catera’s Babylon dental office, we love helping patients understand how to protect their gums before small issues become bigger ones. Let’s look at a few early signs that it’s time to schedule a checkup.

1. Your Gums Bleed When You Brush or Floss

A little blood may not seem serious, but bleeding gums are often the first sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. It usually means plaque and bacteria are irritating your gum tissue.

➡ The good news: with professional cleaning and better at-home care, this stage is completely reversible.

2. Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums

Healthy gums should look pale pink and fit snugly around your teeth. If they appear puffy, red, or sore, inflammation has likely started.

This can develop from poor brushing habits, missed cleanings, or even stress.

Catching it early prevents it from progressing into periodontitis, which can damage bone and tissue.

3. Persistent Bad Breath or Bad Taste

When plaque and bacteria build up beneath the gumline, they can cause chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing or mouthwash.

That odor often signals infection or trapped bacteria — something that can only be resolved with a professional cleaning.

Why Early Detection Matters

Ignoring early symptoms can allow gum disease to advance, eventually leading to gum recession, loose teeth, or even tooth loss.

Routine gum checks allow Dr. Catera to measure pocket depths around each tooth and track any changes over time — a simple, comfortable process that helps keep your smile strong.

Prevention Starts with Routine Care

You can reduce your risk of gum disease by:

• Brushing twice a day with a soft bristle brush
• Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams
• Eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco



At our Babylon office, we’re passionate about educating patients on preventive care. We’re here to answer your questions, monitor your gum health, and help you keep your smile healthy for years to come.

FAQ's

If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, tenderness, or bad breath that won’t go away, it’s time for a gum health check.

📍 Dr. Colleen L. Catera, DMD
1 John St, Suite 206, Babylon, NY 11702
📞 (631) 422-6901

🌐 Schedule an Appointment