Why Is It Bleeding from Your Gums? How Can It Be Treated Permanently?

The progression of gum disease involves the following stages:

1. Plaque Formation:
2. Plaque forms on teeth when sugars and starches in foods interact with oral bacteria. Regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque, but it quickly re-forms.
3. Tartar Formation:
4. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar below the gum line. Tartar is non-removable with regular oral hygiene practices and requires professional intervention for removal.
5. Gingivitis:
6. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, characterized by irritation and inflammation of the gum tissue. It is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.
7. Progression to Periodontitis:
8. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to moderate or severe periodontitis, impacting the supporting structures of the teeth.

Recognizing Gum Disease:

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

• Bright red, dusky red, or purplish gums.
• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing.
• Receding gums.
• Development of gaps between teeth.
• Changes in the way teeth fit together.

If any of these symptoms are present, seeking prompt dental attention is crucial.

Complications of Avoiding Treatment:

Avoiding periodontal treatment can lead to complications, including:

1. Tooth Loss:
2. Untreated gum disease can result in tooth loss as the infection progresses.
3. Systemic Health Issues:
4. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to conditions like respiratory disease, coronary artery disease, blood sugar issues in diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment for Gum Disease:

Treatment aims to thoroughly clean teeth and pockets to prevent further damage to surrounding bone. Non-invasive treatments like scaling and root planing may be effective in the early stages. Other treatments include:

• Topical and Oral Antibiotics: To control bacterial infections.
• Flap Surgery: For advanced cases to clean bacteria below the gum line.
• Soft Tissue Grafts, Bone Grafts, and Guided Tissue Regeneration: For more severe cases.

Adopting a good oral care regimen, managing underlying health conditions, and quitting tobacco use enhance the success of periodontal treatment.

If you notice symptoms of gum disease, scheduling an appointment with a periodontal specialist, like Dr. Steven Feldman DDS, is essential. Timely intervention can prevent the progression of the disease, reduce complications, and improve overall oral and systemic health.