Gum Disease Treatment
Bleeding gums are a sign, not a verdict — and the earlier you catch it, the simpler the fix.
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, you are not alone — and it is not something to ignore. Bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum disease, which is one of the most common dental conditions and the leading reason adults lose teeth. The good news is, when it is caught early, it is also one of the most treatable.
In its earliest stage, called gingivitis, gum disease shows up as redness, swelling, or bleeding when you brush. At this point, it is almost always reversible. A thorough professional cleaning and a few small changes to your home routine can often turn it around completely. You will not need anything dramatic — just attention and some practical guidance.
If gum disease is allowed to progress, it can move below the gumline and start to break down the bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place. That stage is called periodontitis, and the treatment becomes more involved. Dr. Maharaj will explain exactly what is happening in your mouth, what stage you are at, and what your options look like — without any scare tactics.
For more advanced cases, your treatment may include something called scaling and root planing. That is a deeper cleaning that goes below the gumline to remove bacteria and tartar from the roots of your teeth, then smooths the root surfaces so your gums can reattach and heal. The area is fully numbed, so the visit is comfortable, and most people are surprised at how much better their mouth feels afterward.
After your treatment, you will get a clear plan for keeping things on track — what to do at home, how often to come in, what to watch for. Gum disease is not a one-time fix; it is an ongoing relationship between you and your dental home. We are in it with you for the long haul.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have gum disease?
The most common signs are red, swollen, or bleeding gums — especially when you brush or floss. You might also notice persistent bad breath, gums that look like they are pulling back from your teeth, or teeth that feel loose. A lot of people have early gum disease and do not know it, which is why a regular exam matters so much.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
It should not be. For deeper cleanings, the area is fully numbed before any work begins, so you stay comfortable throughout. Most people walk out of the appointment feeling like the cleaning was easier than they expected — and their mouth feels fresher than it has in years.
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