If your gums bleed easily when you brush and floss, you’re experiencing one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. A progressive condition, gum disease is characterized by infection of the gum tissues. When plaque, the sticky film found on your teeth after eating and drinking, is left to harden into tartar, it releases bacteria that irritate the gums. The resulting infection and inflammation are what causes your gums to bleed easily and appear red and swollen. Over time, your gums will recede and pull away from your teeth, creating more space for bacteria and tartar to collect. If you have bleeding gums in Fairfax or Fredericksburg or Manassas, VA reach out to our experienced team at Greater Washington Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we can help. It’s critical to your oral health and physical wellbeing that you seek treatment at the first sign of swollen, bleeding gums, especially if you’re also experiencing bad breath, receding gums, and loose or sensitive teeth.