One of the major causes of bleeding, swollen and receding gums is periodontal disease. Gingivitis makes the gums irritated, inflamed and may cause bleeding during brushing or flossing. There are also medical conditions and medications that can cause these symptoms.
How Does Periodontal Disease Develop?
In general, the progression of gum disease can be classified into three main stages:
- Stage 1 – Gingivitis: The first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterised by a swelling of the gums, as plaque begins to irritate periodontal tissues. Furthermore, patients with gingivitis will often bleed during normal brushing and flossing.
- Stage 2 – Periodontitis: During this stage, the fibers and bones that support teeth will become damaged. Patients with periodontitis will usually begin to feel some discomfort or soreness in and around their gums, and some of their teeth may begin to loosen.
- Stage 3 – Advanced Periodontitis: Advanced periodontitis is the most serious form of gum disease. During this stage, a patient’s periodontal tissues will become severely damaged and broken down. Patients can begin to lose teeth and will likely have visible tissue damage and experience constant pain.
See a Dentist immediately
The extent and cause of the problem dictates the most effective treatment. In most instances, especially when the disease is detected early, a thorough cleaning, scaling and root planing by your dentist may be enough to halt further damage. For those who are vulnerable due to genetics, hormonal changes or medications, more frequent visits to the dentist for cleaning and monitoring of the disease may be necessary.
In severe cases, antibiotics may be required to stop an infection. Surgery could be necessary to repair the gums. In these situations, ongoing treatment is needed before the disease is brought under control.
If you notice any of these symptoms, please make an appointment online via our website for a Periodontal Consultation.