A 35-year-old male patient presents with gums that bleed easily during brushing. He reports that this has been happening for a few weeks. Upon examination, there is evidence of inflammation and redness in the gums. What is a possible diagnosis and what would be the next steps?
The patient's symptoms of bleeding and inflamed gums suggest gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. This is usually caused by inadequate oral hygiene leading to plaque buildup. The next steps would involve reinforcing good oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and flossing techniques. The patient should also have a professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to more serious forms of periodontal disease.