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Bleeding/Swollen Gums

What is it and what can you do?

Bleeding gums can be an alarming and uncomfortable experience. Healthy gums should not bleed during regular brushing or flossing. However, if you notice blood on your toothbrush or floss, it may indicate an underlying oral health issue.

GUM DISEASE

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and supporting tissues around the teeth. It occurs when bacteria in dental plaque irritate and infect the gums, leading to inflammation and, if left untreated, potential damage to the underlying bone structure. Some risk factors for gum disease can include smoking, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, and certain health conditions.

ACCORDING TO THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO), SEVERE PERIODONTAL DISEASE AFFECTS 10-15% OF ADULTS WORLDWIDE, WHILE MILD TO MODERATE FORMS AFFECT AN ADDITIONAL 50-90% OF THE POPULATION.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU MAY HAVE GUM DISEASE?

Tooth Sensitivity

Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures

Receding Gums

Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth, exposing the tooth roots.

Bleeding Gums

Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing

Gum Inflammation

Red, swollen, or tender gums, particularly in the areas where recession is occurring.

Tooth Mobility

Teeth that feel loose or a change in the way your teeth fit together when biting

Persistent bad breath

Chronic halitosis that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene practices

WHAT CAN HAPPEN IF GUM DISEASE IS LEFT UNTREATED

If left untreated, gum disease can progress and lead to potentially severe consequences, including tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. According to a study (The Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in a Birth Cohort of 32-Year-Old Individuals) published in the Journal of Dental Research, untreated gum disease is responsible for approximately 70% of tooth loss in adults aged 45 years and older.

PROMPT TREATMENT OF GUM DISEASE IS VITAL TO HALT ITS PROGRESSION AND PRESERVE ORAL HEALTH

SEEKING DENTAL TREATMENT: IF YOU NOTICE SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE, IT'S IMPORTANT TO SEEK DENTAL TREATMENT. HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN DO:

  1. Improve Oral Hygiene: Maintain proper oral hygiene practices by brushing your teeth gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily. This helps reduce bacterial activity.

  2. Professional Dental Care: Visit your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation. They will assess the extent of gum disease and determine any underlying cause. Professional cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, may be performed to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

  3. Periodontal Treatments: In more severe cases, your dentist may refer to a periodontist for additional treatments.

  4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Adopting a well-balanced diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, and incorporating regular physical activity contribute to oral and general health. 

This article is designed to be for information purposes only and does not substitute or replace the advice of a registered health practitioner. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Please view the site Disclaimer for more information.

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We are taking a short break

The clinic will be closed from Thursday 2nd April 2026, and will reopen on Tuesday 7th April 2026. Online booking remains available for scheduling appointments.

Victorian Dental Group will be closed for annual maintenance on 3rd and 4th of October. Online booking remains active and our team will be available from Monday 7th October. 

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