An infection of the gums, which is also called gum or periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects approximately 80 percent of people in the United States, according to MedlinePlus. People who develop gum infection symptoms should seek further evaluation and care from a dentist. Left untreated, gum infection can cause permanent oral medical complications.
Bleeding or Discolored Gums
The earliest form of a gum infection, called gingivitis, can cause severe inflammation of the gums. When this occurs, a person can notice that his gums bleed easily, especially while brushing his teeth or flossing, explains KidsHealth. Bleeding gums can be sensitive to the touch and may appear red, swollen or inflamed.
Receding Gum Line
An infection of the gum line can cause the gums to pull away from the base of the teeth, a type of infection called periodontitis. A receding gum line can cause a person's teeth to appear longer than usual, report health professionals with the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Patients who develop this gum infection symptom can notice small pockets around the base of the teeth that appear inflamed or infected.
Halitosis
Halitosis, or bad breath, is a gum infection symptom in certain people, report University of Maryland Medical Center health experts. Bacteria along the gum line excrete foul-smelling substances as they replicate within the mouth. People with a gum infection can develop an unpleasant taste within their mouth that is accompanied by chronic bad breath. These gum infection symptoms can arise even if a person frequently brushes her teeth.
Loose Teeth
In healthy people, the gums and jaw bones help hold the teeth firmly in place within the mouth. A gum infection can erode the gum line, which can cause loose teeth in affected people, UMMC health professionals report. Left untreated, a gum infection can cause teeth to shift out of place or fall out of the gums.
