Teeth usually get all the attention, but gums are the real foundation. Many people think everything is fine just because there’s no pain—until gum problems become serious.
One early sign is bleeding while brushing or flossing. A little blood now and then is not “normal” or something to ignore. It often means your gums are inflamed, usually due to plaque build-up.
Look at the gum line in the mirror. Healthy gums are usually firm, pink and snug around teeth. Puffy, red, or shiny gums that look slightly swollen can indicate gingivitis (early gum disease).
Bad breath that doesn’t go away even after cleaning your tongue and brushing properly may also point to gum issues or deeper problems in your mouth.
Another hidden sign is receding gums—when teeth start to look “longer” because gum tissue has moved slightly down. This can be from aggressive brushing, gum disease, or sometimes misaligned bite forces.
If you notice sensitivity near the neck of the tooth, especially to cold or touch, exposed root surfaces may be involved.None of this means panic—but it does mean you shouldn’t wait years between dental visits. A professional cleaning and advice on brushing/flossing technique can often reverse early gum issues before they become painful or lead to tooth loss.
