What is a common sign of periodontal disease?

A common sign of periodontal disease is bleeding gums during brushing. This symptom occurs as the gum tissue becomes inflamed and irritated due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, leading to gingivitis or more advanced periodontal conditions. Healthy gums should not bleed, so any bleeding when brushing or flossing indicates that there might be an underlying issue that can necessitate further evaluation and treatment.

Increased teeth whiteness is not associated with periodontal disease; rather, it may be a result of good oral hygiene or whitening products. The absence of tooth sensitivity tends to indicate healthier dental conditions, while periodontal disease often causes sensitivity due to the loss of supporting structures around the teeth. Pain when chewing hard foods can be a symptom of other dental issues, such as cavities or cracked teeth, but is not specifically a hallmark of periodontal disease.