Having gums that bleed is an indication that you likely have gum disease. Depending on the severity of it, you may have either gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease. While gingivitis is less serious, you may have the more serious form. A dentist can help you know what form you have and provide treatment for it.

Gingivitis

Bleeding gums are the most common sign that you have gingivitis. Your gums may also be red and somewhat swollen. At this stage, you can get rid of it on your own, but you need to get started right away.

Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, meaning that you do not start to brush and floss regularly, it can degrade into periodontitis. This is by far the more serious gum disease, and if it is not treated, it could lead to a loss of some or all your teeth.

The gums will begin to pull away from the teeth and pockets will develop. In periodontal (gum) disease, bacterium begins to grow in the pockets and this leads to a breaking down of the connective tissue and bone that holds your teeth in place. Although it may take some time, teeth will likely become loose and need to be removed.

Cause of Periodontitis

Periodontitis is caused by bacteria in the mouth. This bacterium is normally there, but when it is excessive, it produces acids that harm your teeth. When it gets below the gum line, it produces infection. This is why brushing and flossing are so important – it reduces the bacteria.

Treatment for Periodontitis

A dentist may first try and reduce the symptoms of periodontitis by using antibacterial mouth washes and making sure you brush and floss regularly. However, this will only get rid of some of the bacteria because it is already below the gum line.

If that does not work, then more serious options are necessary. A procedure called scaling and root planing becomes necessary, which involves the dentist actually scraping off the tartar where they find it – above and below your gum line. Medications will likely be added to the treatment.

If that fails, then surgery becomes necessary. This will include attempts to further remove tartar in the deep pockets, and it may also involve grafts of bone and tissue to replace the destroyed portions.

Other Possible Health Problems

Recently, researchers have discovered that there is a direct connection between infections in your gums and your overall health. At first it was only suspected, but now the connection is being considered much more seriously. Problems now believed to be connected to gum disease include: heart disease and hardening of the arteries, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and premature births.

The dentists at Amazing Smile Dental NY, in the Forest Hills area of Queens, NY, are glad to offer exams and treatment for periodontal (gum) disease. We want to help you keep your teeth along with a great smile. We offer a complete range of dental services for the entire family. Call us today at (718) 674-6478 to learn more and to make an appointment.