Swollen and bleeding gums are usually due to periodontal, or gum, diseases, which are serious bacterial infections that may lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly. Poor dental hygiene, improper diet and even a genetic predisposition can cause periodontal disease to develop. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends visiting a dentist once a year for a routine checkup and cleaning. Regular dental visits help to prevent disease and improve the longevity of a patient's teeth.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. The gums become red, swollen and bleed frequently--particularly when brushing or flossing the teeth, the Academy of Periodontology explains. Bacteria that exist around the teeth cause the gingivitis by inflaming the surrounding gum tissue. Gingivitis is almost always due to inadequate oral hygiene and is usually reversible. Regularly brushing in the morning, between meals and at night, followed by flossing, helps remove plaque and debris that bacteria can feed on, according to MayoClinic.com.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis progresses, periodontitis will inevitably develop. The plaque spreads and proliferates below the gumline, allowing toxins from the bacteria to irritate the gum tissue, according to the Academy of Periodontology. Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that destroys both the surrounding soft tissue as well as the bone structures that support the teeth. Excessive swelling and bleeding will be apparent, as well as bright red or purplish gum tissue that is tender to the touch and a recessed gumline where the tissue pulls away from the teeth. Other indicators include pus between the teeth and gums due to the spreading infection, bad breath and space development between teeth. MayoClinic.com advises immediate medical attention for periodontitis, as the infection can increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke or other serious health conditions.
Hunger and Malnutrition
Individuals who do not obtain the proper amount of nutrition will exhibit swollen and bleeding gums due to a lowered immune system function, KidsHealth says. When the body is unable to procure the necessary nutrients, it is inhibited from warding off the simplest forms of bacteria or reinforcing the strength of structures such as teeth and bones. For example, a poor diet consisting of high levels of sugar, such as soda, can rapidly increase the rate of decay of the teeth preceded by swollen and bleeding gums.
