What are common signs of periodontal disease?

Common signs of periodontal disease include swollen or bleeding gums. This condition occurs as a result of inflammation associated with plaque buildup along the gumline, which can irritate the gums and lead to disease progression if not addressed. Individuals affected by periodontal disease often notice that their gums become red, swollen, and bleed when brushing or flossing.

The other choices, while they may indicate other oral health issues, do not specifically represent the common signs of periodontal disease. For example, white spots on teeth are typically associated with dental caries or enamel demineralization, rather than gum health. Teeth that are too close together can lead to difficulties in cleaning and may contribute to plaque buildup but is not a direct sign of periodontal disease itself. Lastly, black discoloration of gums can be related to various conditions or poor oral hygiene but is not a typical indicator of periodontal disease. Thus, swollen or bleeding gums provide the clearest indication of the presence of periodontal disease.