If you see a little pink in the sink when you brush or floss, don't ignore it—it is not normal. Bleeding gums are almost always a sign of inflammation or infection, and it’s a critical signal that you need periodontal treatment.
At Crown Dental Group in National City, we want to help you understand the severity of your symptoms. Gum disease progresses in stages, and the good news is that if you catch it early, it is completely reversible.
Stage 1: Gingivitis (Reversible)
What it is: The mildest stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup that irritates the gum tissue.
Symptoms: Gums that are red, swollen, and bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
Treatment: A professional dental cleaning to remove hardened tartar (calculus) and improved daily brushing and flossing habits. Once the plaque is gone, your gums will heal completely.
Stage 2: Periodontitis (Serious and Not Curable)
What it is: Untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. The infection begins to destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
Symptoms: Gum recession (teeth look longer), deep gum pockets, persistent bad breath, and eventually, loose teeth.
Treatment: This stage requires a specialized procedure called scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning) to remove bacteria from the root surfaces. Periodontitis cannot be cured, but it can be successfully managed with frequent professional cleanings (periodontal maintenance).
Option 2: Pulling the Tooth (Extraction)
The infected tooth is removed. The gap is gone, but the long-term problems are just beginning.
Procedure | Long-Term Cost/Value |
Extraction | The initial cost is low (extraction fee). But this must be followed by a replacement procedure to avoid serious issues. |
Replacement Options | Implant: High cost (most natural result). Bridge: Moderate cost (requires grinding healthy teeth). Denture: Low cost (least stable). |
Long-Term Value | Lowest. Failure to replace the tooth leads to shifting teeth and bone loss, which is costly to treat later. |
Why You Must Act Fast
If you ignore bleeding gums, the infection will worsen, leading to permanent bone loss. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
If your gums bleed, it's a sign your body needs professional help. Our dental team specializes in diagnosing and treating all stages of gum disease.
Don't wait until it's too late. Call Crown Dental Group today to schedule your exam and protect your smile's foundation!
