What's the difference between bleeding gums and gingivitis?

by Alice
(Illinois)

I've been doing some research, and it seems to me like there are two different problems: bleeding gums and gingivitis. I know bleeding gums is a symptom of gingivitis, but I have read multiple things that made it sound like it's own disease. What is the difference between the two (if there is one) and which is more serious?

My second question is, which one do I have? I have 2 or 3 very small places where my gums are swollen (where they touch my teeth), I don't get bad breath, and I rarely get a bad taste in my mouth. My only real symptoms are the bleeding gums- never the same gum area two times in a row and only when I brush- and my teeth often feel sensitive and a little painful after I brush. I brush twice a day, use mouthwash twice a day, and floss every night. The flossing is a new addition to my regimen, as I started doing it a few weeks ago, when my gums first started bleeding.

I'm only 24, so I understand I'm not exactly the high-risk age group, but I'm getting panicky about developing periodontitis or losing my teeth. I know I should just go to the dentist, but I went 3 months ago, and I can't really afford to go again so soon if I'm only going to be told to "Floss more and avoid sugar."

Sorry this question is so long, but I'm a natural worryer and I've been really stressed about this!