Bleeding on probing (BOP) indicates what?

• A. Inflammation and potential active periodontal disease
• B. No inflammation
• C. Healthy tissue
• D. Pockets are shallow

Answer: (A)

Bleeding on probing shows that the gingival tissues are inflamed. When the sulcular epithelium is inflamed, tiny blood vessels are more fragile, so even gentle probing can cause bleeding. This indicates an active inflammatory process in the periodontium, often associated with plaque-induced gingivitis and potential progression to periodontal disease. Healthy tissue typically does not bleed on probing, and shallow pockets alone don’t explain bleeding. Remember that factors like probing force, smoking, or systemic conditions can influence bleeding, but overall, BOP points to inflammation and possible active periodontal disease.