A picture says a thousand words...

 Say NO to PERIO Day 2:
SYMPTOMS

It may be hard to tell if you have a mild case of gum disease. Healthy gums are pink and firm, fit snugly around the teeth, and do not bleed easily. But mild cases of gum disease (gingivitis) cause:

• Gums that are red, swollen, and tender.
• Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing.

As gum disease gets worse (periodontitis), the symptoms are easier to see, such as:

• Gums that pull away or shrink from the teeth.
• Bad breath that won't go away.
• Pus coming from the gums.
• A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
• Loose teeth.

Say NO to PERIO! - What is it? Causes and Risk Factors.

Periodontal disease (or gum disease or "perio" for short) is an infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth. The two stages of gum disease are called gingivitis and periodontitis.