Gingivitis
Key facts
- Gingivitis is a common type of gum disease.
- Gingivitis occurs when plaque builds up along your gum line, irritating your gums.
- Common symptoms of gingivitis include swollen or bleeding gums and bad breath.
- See your dentist if you have symptoms of gingivitis or are worried about any changes in your mouth.
- If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a common type of gum disease caused by plaque building up on your teeth along the gum line. This can irritate your gums and may cause them to bleed or become swollen.
About 1 in every 2 people will have gingivitis at some stage in their lifetime.
Gingivitis is different to periodontitis, which is another type of gum disease. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that can cause inflammation in your gums and the bones holding your teeth in place.
What are the symptoms of gingivitis?
Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth is a common symptom of gingivitis. Other symptoms include:
- sore gums
- redness or swelling around your gums
- bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- receding gums (gums that move away from your teeth)
- sensitive teeth
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
What causes gingivitis?
Gingivitis is caused by plaque building up on your teeth along the gum line. Bacteria in the plaque can irritate your gums, causing gingivitis.
Plaque can build up if you don't brush your teeth correctly or if you don't look after your oral health.
If you have a health condition, such as diabetes or an immune disorder, you may be more likely to develop gingivitis.
When should I see my dentist?
You should see your dentist if you:
- notice any symptoms of gingivitis
- have calculus (a build-up of plaque that has become hard)
- are worried about any changes in your mouth
It's important to have regular dental check-ups even if you don't have any symptoms.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
How is gingivitis diagnosed?
To diagnose gingivitis, your dentist or dental practitioner will examine your mouth. They may use an instrument to measure the space between your teeth and gums. This shows how healthy your gums and teeth are.
How is gingivitis treated?
Gingivitis is treated by removing any plaque from your teeth. Calculus will need to be removed by a dentist or dental practitioner.
Treating gingivitis as early as possible is important. If it's treated early, gingivitis is usually reversible because it does not cause damage to your teeth or bone.
Self-care at home
At home you will need to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. You should also floss your teeth twice a day. This helps get rid of the plaque and bacteria that cause gingivitis.
Brushing your teeth correctly is important. Ask your dentist or dental practitioner how to best brush your teeth.
What are the complications of gingivitis?
Without treatment, gingivitis can develop into a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. This can cause serious problems such as:
- abscesses (small build-up of pus due to infection)
- loose teeth
- receding gums
- tooth loss
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- swollen, red gums
- bleeding gums
- receding gums
- bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- new spaces between your teeth
- tender teeth, especially when you bite
Periodontitis may be irreversible. See your dentist or dental practitioner if you have any symptoms of periodontitis.
Can gingivitis be prevented?
Taking care of your mouth helps prevent gingivitis. Even if your gums are bleeding or inflamed, it's important to keep brushing and flossing your teeth. This will help to gradually remove the plaque and improve your symptoms.
You can also improve the health of your mouth by:
- eating a healthy, balanced diet
- avoiding sugary and fatty foods
- stopping smoking or vaping
- taking care of your dentures
- limiting your alcohol intake
Resources and support
The Teeth.org.au page offers information on various topics including:
- brushing your teeth
- tooth erosion
- fluoride
You may be able to get money back for dental care:
- Learn more about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule on the Services Australia page.
- If you have private health insurance, check your extras cover to see what dental costs you can claim.
Languages other than English
The Health Translations page has a fact sheet on gum disease in multiple languages.
The Teeth.org.au website offers resources in languages other than English.
Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples
For Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Teeth.org.au website offers resources, including information on:
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for advice. A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: February 2026
