Blood on your brush, floss, or sink is a tell-tale sign that you have gum disease. You may be in the early stages, known as gingivitis, or you may have already progressed to a gum infection called periodontitis. Either way, it’s time to call the dentist.<\/p>\n
Your oral health greatly impacts your immune system and overall health. If you suffer from periodontitis, you’re at increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.<\/p>\n
Gingivitis is treated with scaling and root planing. During scaling, the dentist removes plaque from the surfaces of your teeth and from beneath your gums. Root planing involves smoothing the roots of your teeth so they can reattach to your gums.<\/p>\n
If you ignore bleeding gums, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis \u2014 a serious infection in which deep pockets filled with bacteria develop between your teeth and gums. If left untreated, the soft tissue damage worsens and bone is ravaged, leading to tooth loss. Further treatments include antibacterial mouthwashes, bone and tissue grafts, flap surgery, guided tissue regeneration, and gum grafting.<\/p>\n