Don’t ignore bleeding gums warns Wolverhampton-based specialist periodontist
Bleeding gums may seem like a harmless, temporary issue to many, often written off as a result of brushing too hard. However, this seemingly insignificant symptom could be a red flag for a much more serious condition: periodontal disease.
As one of the most common yet underdiagnosed dental health issues, periodontal disease is a threat that affects not only the mouth but can have serious implications for overall health if left untreated.
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that support and surround the teeth. It begins with gingivitis, the early stage, where the gums become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. If caught early, gingivitis can be treated with good oral hygiene and professional care, preventing further damage. However, when ignored, it can progress into periodontitis, a more advanced form where the infection spreads deeper into the gums and bone, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Dr Hardeep Sahota, the only Specialist Periodontist in Wolverhampton, warns against dismissing early symptoms: "When people experience bleeding gums, they often think it’s due to brushing too hard, but this is rarely the case. Bleeding is often the first sign of gum inflammation, which indicates the early stages of periodontal disease," says Dr Sahota.
"If left untreated, the condition can worsen, leading to painful infections, gum recession, and even the loss of teeth."
According to Dr Sahota, who practices at Rock Dental, periodontal disease is prevalent, especially among adults over the age of 35. He emphasises that even those with good oral hygiene habits aren’t immune, as the disease can be influenced by several factors, including lifestyle, genetics, and existing health conditions.
The Risk Factors
While poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease, several other factors can increase susceptibility. Dr Sahota points to smoking, stress, and hormonal changes as contributors, as they can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections. "Smoking, in particular, is a major risk factor because it reduces blood flow to the gums, which weakens the body’s immune response. Smokers are twice as likely to develop gum disease as non-smokers," he notes.
In addition to lifestyle habits, certain health conditions can significantly raise the risk of developing periodontal disease. Dr Sahota highlights diabetes and hypertension as two key concerns. "There’s a strong link between gum disease and systemic health conditions. For instance, people with diabetes are at a higher risk because high blood sugar levels can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections, including those in the gums. Hypertension and heart disease are also linked to periodontal disease because chronic inflammation in the mouth can contribute to inflammation throughout the body," he explains.
Research has shown that periodontal disease can worsen conditions like cardiovascular disease, as the inflammation from infected gums can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. "Inflammation is a key factor in both gum disease and heart disease, and the two are closely connected. The bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and trigger systemic inflammation, which impacts heart health," adds Dr Sahota.
The Broader Health Implications
The link between oral health and overall health has become a growing area of interest in medical research. Studies suggest that the chronic inflammation caused by periodontitis doesn’t just remain in the mouth but spreads throughout the body. This can increase the risk of serious conditions, such as respiratory diseases, kidney disease, and even certain cancers.
"For years, people viewed oral health as separate from the rest of their body, but we’re now seeing how interconnected they are," says Dr Sahota. "Gum disease is not just a localised issue—it can have wide-reaching effects on your health, which is why early diagnosis and treatment are so important."
Despite the serious risks, periodontal disease is preventable. Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for routine check-ups, can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease. However, Dr Sahota emphasises that professional intervention is critical for those already showing symptoms.
Treatment and Prevention
At Rock Dental in Wolverhampton, Dr Sahota offers comprehensive periodontal care tailored to each patient’s needs. "We always recommend that patients come in for regular check-ups, but if they experience symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth, it’s important to seek immediate professional advice," he advises.
As the only Specialist Periodontist in Wolverhampton, Dr Sahota has the expertise to provide both non-surgical and surgical treatments for patients suffering from gum disease. "For early-stage gingivitis, a thorough professional cleaning and improved home care may be enough to reverse the condition," he explains. "For more advanced cases, we offer deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing, which remove plaque and tartar below the gum line to help the gums heal. In severe cases, surgical interventions may be required to regenerate lost bone and tissue."
Rock Dental prides itself on offering high-quality, patient-focused care. "Our goal is to help patients understand the importance of gum health, prevent the progression of disease, and ultimately preserve their teeth and gums for life," says Dr Sahota.
When to Seek Help
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is through early detection and treatment. If you’ve noticed any signs of gum disease, from bleeding gums to persistent bad breath, it’s essential not to ignore them. At Rock Dental, Dr Hardeep Sahota is available to consult with patients, assess their gum health, and offer personalised treatment plans.
"Many patients come to us when their condition has already progressed, and it’s much harder to reverse the damage at that stage," says Dr Sahota. "The earlier we catch it, the better the outcome. Even if you think your symptoms are mild, it’s worth getting them checked out."
For Wolverhampton residents concerned about their gum health, Rock Dental is a trusted provider of comprehensive periodontal care. Whether you need routine advice or more specialised treatment, Dr Sahota and the team are dedicated to helping patients achieve and maintain healthy gums and a healthy body.
