Gingivitis (the earlier stage) infects the gingiva region of the gums and leads to inflammation, bleeding, and sensitivity around the gumline. As time goes on, the plaque buildup will harden into tartar and it’s bacteria will continue to fester away at the integrity of the gums and teeth. Periodontitis is hard to miss, and is usually identified by symptoms such as extreme pain, excessive bleeding, receding gums, tooth decay, and even the formation of pus.