Saltwater can help in the very early stages of gum diseases. However, the disease can progress and lead to periodontitis. This is an advanced gum infection that is characterized by swollen, tender, purplish, or bright red gums, bad breath, loose teeth, pain when chewing, receding gums, and pus between the gums. When you develop periodontal disease, you will need other forms of treatments that can help ease the discomfort.