Gums are firm and resilient, with a healthy pink color. Healthy gums do not bleed on probing. Tissue is firm with a normal variation of lighter and darker areas. An inflammation of the gingiva or gums with a loss of color variation. Gum tissue is red, inflamed and bleeds when probed or when brushing.
Puffy tissue causes shallow pockets between gum and tooth.
Bleeding is more persistent on probing. Pockets of 3-4 mm develop between teeth and gums in one or more areas of the mouth. The gum attachment to the tooth weakens and pockets are now 4-6mm deep. Teeth may look longer, as gums begin receding. Bad breath becomes noticeable.