What is a key sign of periodontal disease?

A key sign of periodontal disease is gum bleeding during brushing or flossing. This symptom indicates inflammation and irritation of the gums, commonly known as gingivitis, which is often the first stage of periodontal disease. When an individual has a buildup of plaque along the gum line, the body’s immune response leads to swelling and bleeding of the gums. If not addressed, this can progress to more severe forms of periodontal disease, which may ultimately result in the loss of tooth attachment and, if untreated, tooth loss.

Other options, while they may be associated with oral health issues, are not definitive indicators of periodontal disease. Tooth discoloration can occur due to various factors, including diet and hygiene practices, chronic bad breath might indicate other issues like tooth decay or oral infection, and difficulty chewing could result from numerous conditions, including dental abscesses or structural issues with the teeth and jaw. However, bleeding gums specifically signals a problem with the gum health indicative of periodontal concerns.