Bleeding while brushing, bad breath, swelling or gum recession may indicate that gum health needs assessment. Care should address the cause rather than only the visible symptom.
Bleeding gums should not be considered normal. Facial swelling, fever, bleeding that will not stop or rapidly increasing pain requires urgent assessment.
Suitability
Who may benefit from an assessment?
- People whose gums bleed during brushing or interdental cleaning
- Patients with calculus, persistent bad breath or gum swelling
- People with gum recession or sensitivity from exposed roots
- Patients needing professional maintenance around implants or restorations
What causes bleeding gums?
The most common cause is inflammation from plaque at the gumline. Calculus, smoking, diabetes, pregnancy, some medicines and poorly fitting restorations are also considered during risk assessment.
What causes gum recession?
Gum disease, traumatic brushing, thin gum tissue, tooth position and smoking may contribute. Treatment begins by identifying and controlling the active cause.
What does professional cleaning do?
Plaque and calculus are removed from the teeth and gumline. If there are deep gum pockets or bone loss, more extensive periodontal treatment may be needed than a routine cleaning.
How is home care adjusted?
Gentle brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily interdental cleaning are the foundation. The choice of brush, interdental brush or floss is personalised to the spaces in the mouth.
Treatment journey
How does the process work?
- 01
Assess gums, plaque, calculus and risk factors
- 02
Provide the necessary professional cleaning or periodontal care
- 03
Teach personalised brushing and interdental cleaning
- 04
Review healing and set a maintenance interval
Clinical sources
The general health information on this page has been checked against these independent patient resources.