Bleeding from the gums is mainly due to inadequate plaque removal from the teeth at the gum line. This will lead to a disorder involving inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and dental appointments, it will harden into what is known as tartar. Ultimately, this will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as Periodonditis. This is a dental disorder that results from progression of gingivitis, involving inflammation and infection of the ligaments and bones that support the teeth. Persistant bleeding gums are sometimes a sign of serious medical disorders such as leukemia, bleeding disorders, platelet disorders, or overmedication with anticoagulants ("blood thinners" such as Coumadin).

Bleeding gums are caused by inadequate oral hygeine and the long-term effects of plaque deposits. Any injury or trauma to the gums, including overly vigorous brushing or flossing of the teeth, can also cause gingivitis. Those most at risk of developing gingivitis have the following conditions: uncontrolled diabetes, pregnancy (because of hormonal changes that increase the sensitivity of the gingiva), recurring general illness. Misaligned teeth, rough edges of fillings, and ill fitting or unclean mouth appliances (such as orthodontic appliances, dentures, bridges, and crowns) can irritate the gums and also increase the risk of gingivitis. Medications such as phenytoin and birth control pills, and ingestion of heavy metals such as lead and bismuth are also associated with gingivitis. Many people experience gingivitis to a varying degree. It usually develops during puberty or early adulthood due to hormonal changes and may persist or recur frequently, depending on how healthy your teeth and gums are. Symptoms Sore mouth Swollen gums Bright red or red-purple appearance to gums Shiny appearance to gums Bleeding gums (blood on toothbrush even with gentle brushing of the teeth) Gums that are tender when touched, but otherwise painless

The goal of the Q Perio. Group is to provide you with micro-invasive surgical, non-surgical and plastic treatment solutions to reduce gingival inflammation, further progression of the disease, to eliminate the causes of the disease, and to provide a stable and aesthetic solution to enhance your smile and dental health. Meticulous oral hygiene is necessary after treatment. The Specialist and the hygienist will demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques. Professional teeth cleaning in addition to brushing and flossing may be recommended twice per year (or more frequently for severe cases). Antibacterial mouth rinses or other aids may be recommended in addition to frequent, careful, tooth brushing and flossing.

Dr Richard Tucker BDS MSc MClinDent MFDS MRD(Perio) RCSEd Richard Tucker is a Specialist Periodontist in the Q Periodontics and Implants Group with over 12 years experience in treating patients in private practice. He is also Clinical Lecturer in Periodontology at the Eastman.

The Perio and Implant Group Q Clinic brings a fresh and innovative approach to the referral, treatment and long term care of patients. The Group is led by a world authority in the field, Professor Maurizio Tonetti who holds the Chair in Periodontology at the Eastman, University College London. The group includes specialists who are able to provide a unique breadth and depth of expertise in clinical periodontology and implant dentistry. We provide a full spectrum of services ranging from diagnostics and treatment planning, to the most advanced periodontal and implant regenerative or plastic procedures. The ability to use standard surgical approaches, along with minimally invasive and micro surgical ones, adds a unique, novel dimension to the care we can offer. Admission privileges at some of the best private hospitals provide the opportunity to improve patient's comfort for some of the more involved procedures. The group will work both as individuals and as a team to ensure optimal patient care and satisfy the needs of the case. Our aim is to build effective partnerships with general practitioners and specialists for the benefit of your patients. Too often the referral process can result in GDPs losing touch with the progress of their patient’s treatment; specialist care is undertaken away from the General Practice and often a poor relationship between specialist and practitioner results in little or no meaningful communication. As members of the ITI (International Team for Implantology), the Perio and Implant Group offer practitioners and patients alike, the very highest quality of care in terms of treatment planning, the execution of treatment and the raw materials used. Their commitment is to a producing a finished case, both clinically and aesthetically excellent. The Perio and Implant Group and Q Clinic offers a combination of expertise and facilities unmatched in this field. Flexibility in schedules will ensure the ability to satisfy demand and patients will be offered 5 day a week cover for all periodontal and implant cases.

Diagnostic Services periodontal consultation and report full mouth intraoral radiographs ct scan microbiological diagnosis genetic susceptibility testing haematology periodontal risk assessment profile diagnostic wax-up Non-surgical services supragingival scaling and oral hygiene instructions scaling and root planning periodontal re-evaluation and formulation of final treatment plan local delivery of antimicrobials Supportive care services periodontal maintenance care Surgical services Conservative periodontal surgery access flap periodontal surgery Resective periodontal surgery apically positioned flap root separation and/or resection surgical crown lengthening regenerative periodontal surgery modified or simplified papilla preservation flaps regenerative materials extended regenerative post-operative follow-up and prophylaxis Aesthetic periodontal surgery surgical management of periodontitis in the anterior sextant root coverage procedures ridge augmentation Surgical implantology treatment plan diagnostic wax-up, surgical stent osseointegrated implant intra-alveloar sinus graft in conjunction with implant placement, add soft tissue augmentation for optimal aesthetic. major sinus lift site development surgery