Bleeding and tenderness of the gums should reduce within 1 or 2 weeks after treatment. Careful oral hygiene must be maintained lifelong or the disorder may recur. Consult your dentist if signs of gingivitis are present. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if the dentist recommends medical treatment of underlying conditions that contribute to the development of periodontitis. The infected gums swell, bleed easily, recede, and loosen from the teeth.
Tooth loss is caused more frequently by gum disease than tooth decay.