"My gums are bleeding" Gum Treatment Questions, Answered

Gum disease is a condition in which plaque and tartar cause inflammation in the gums and the alveolar bone. In the early stage, Bleeding gums(Gingivitis) at first, and if left untreated, the supporting bone can be lost, teeth become loose, and teeth may fall out (Periodontitis). It is very common—over 80% of Korean adults experience it.

Common signs include bleeding when brushing, gums that swell and turn red, severe bad breath, teeth that look longer (gum recession), loose teeth, and discomfort when chewing. Early on, symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss.

One Scaling (Dental Cleaning) per year is covered by Korean NHIS. Generally, we recommend it every 6 months, and if your gums are not healthy, every 3~4 months is best.

Yes, that's a normal response. As tartar is removed, tooth rootscan be exposed and feel temporarily sensitive; this usually goes away within 1~2 weeks. Tooth sensitivity Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.

① Scaling (Dental Cleaning) ② Root planing (removal of tartar below the gums) ③ Periodontal surgery (in severe cases, opening the gums to clean) ④ Maintenance (Regular checkups). It is carried out in stages, and in most cases non-surgical treatment is sufficient.

Early gingivitis can be fully cured with Scaling (Dental Cleaning) and proper home care. In moderate or more advanced periodontitis, the dissolved bone does not fully recover, but with appropriate treatment and maintenance the disease can be stopped and kept stable. Lifelong maintenance is needed.

Deep areas that do not improve with non-surgical care (Scaling (Dental Cleaning), root planing) periodontal pockets(6mm or more), or when there is severe bone loss, gum surgery may be considered. The gums are opened to remove deep tartar and inflamed tissue, and when needed Bone graft (GBR)is performed.

① Proper brushing technique (modified Bass technique) ② Use floss/interdental brushes daily ③ Scaling (Dental Cleaning) every 6 months ④ Quit smoking (smoking is the top risk factor for gum disease) ⑤ Manage diabetes and stress. Quitting smoking alone can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease.

Seoul BD Dental has a periodontist on staff, enabling systematic gum care. Digital X-ray is used to accurately assess bone condition, and we provide personalized maintenance programs. With 365-day availability, we can respond quickly to acute gum pain.

No. Avoiding brushing because of bleeding allows more plaque to build up and worsens inflammation. Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean along the gumline. Bleeding during brushing is an early sign of gum inflammation and improves with proper brushing and Scaling (Dental Cleaning).

Once gums have receded, they do not recover naturally. In severe cases Gum graft can improve the condition. To prevent further recession, proper brushing (don’t scrub hard) and regular checkups are important.

Many studies show that gum disease (periodontal disease) is associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, and preterm birth/low birth weight. Because gum bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect the whole body, gum care is part of overall health care.

Root planing (SRP) is a procedure that removes tartar and bacterial toxins hidden below the gums. After local anesthesia, specialized instruments smooth the root surfaces to reduce bacterial attachment. It is used for moderate gum disease that does not resolve with Scaling (Dental Cleaning) alone.

Periodontal regeneration surgery (GTR, bone grafts) can restore some areas. However, not every defect will regenerate, and results vary depending on the shape and extent of the defect. Above all, preventing further Bone resorptionPreventing it with ongoing maintenance is key.

Gum disease is one of the main causes of bad breath (halitosis). Sulfur compounds produced by bacteria under the gums cause odor. Many cases improve with Scaling (Dental Cleaning) and Gum (Periodontal) Treatment, but other causes such as gastrointestinal disorders or tonsil stones are also possible.

Pregnancy gingivitis is very common due to hormonal changes. It can be managed with proper brushing and Scaling (Dental Cleaning), and scaling during pregnancy is safe. If left untreated, a pregnancy tumor (benign) can develop, so please visit us if you have symptoms.

Brushing too hard can injure and recede your gums, and the tooth surface (enamel) wears away. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush at a 45-degree angle along the gumline and gently brushing in small circles (a modified Bass technique) is most effective.

Over-the-counter gum supplements or health products only play a supporting role; they cannot replace Scaling (Dental Cleaning) and professional treatment. Because plaque and tartar are the root cause of gum disease, proper brushing plus regular Scaling (Dental Cleaning) are most important.

No! Waterpik is effective for cleaning between teeth, but toothbrushing cannot be replaced. Brush tooth surfaces with a toothbrush, and use a Waterpik to assist in cleaning between the teeth and along the gumline—that’s the proper way to use it.

They worsen each other. Diabetes lowers immunity and can worsen gum disease, and severe gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control. People with diabetes should have periodontal checkups and Scaling (Dental Cleaning) every 3~4 months.