Bleeding gums is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease; if you have bleeding gums, this may not necessarily mean that you have gum disease, but it is always best to se your dentist and get your gums checked.

About gum disease

Gum disease is a common oral disease; it is caused by plaque irritating the gums and causing them to become swollen and sore. Plaque is a white film-like substance, which is made from saliva, bacteria and food debris.

The tell-tale signs of gum disease include inflamed, sore and tender gums, bleeding gums, especially when you brush your teeth, and redness in the gums. Symptoms of advanced gum disease include an unpleasant taste in your mouth and the formation of pockets between the teeth and the gums; eventually, the teeth may also come loose and fall out.

When should I see my dentist?

If you notice symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding when you clean your teeth, see your dentist as soon as possible. It is important to get symptoms of gum disease checked out because it gets worse with time and advanced gum disease causes irreversible damage to the gums and may result in the teeth falling out. It is possible to treat gingivitis, the early state of gum disease, fairly easily, but treatment for periodontal disease, the advanced form of gum disease, is much more complex.

Other possible causes of bleeding gums

Bleeding gums can also be a result of:

• injury to the gums and cut gums
• ill-fitting dentures
• mouth ulcers

Contact the team in London for more help and information.