Does brushing or flossing make your gums bleed? While occasional bleeding might not seem alarming, it could be an early warning sign of gum disease or other underlying issues. Bleeding gums are common in many patients and occur due to various reasons. Interested to learn more about these causes and treatments for severe periodontal disease? Let’s dive deeper and understand how to restore your gum health.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
The following issues might be the reasons behind gingival bleeding.
Gingivitis: Early Stage of Gum Disease
This is a mild gum disease caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, tenderness, and bleeding. Symptoms of gingivitis include swelling and red gums that bleed easily, particularly during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe gum disorder that may result in tooth loss.
Brushing Aggressively
It’s a common misconception that brushing your teeth thoroughly makes you cleaner. Instead, aggressive brushing might damage your sensitive periodontal tissue, leading to bleeding, discomfort, and recession. Switching to a toothbrush with soft bristles and brushing in moderate circular strokes protects your gums from harm.
Dentures That Don’t Fit Well
Sometimes, poorly fitting dentures can cause bleeding and ulcers by rubbing against the gums. Make sure your dentures fit properly, and take them off at night to allow your gums to recover. Remember, maintaining good denture hygiene helps avoid gingival discomfort and plaque buildup.
How Do Dentists Diagnose Gum Disease?
If your gums bleed frequently, a visit to the dentist is crucial. A routine dental examination helps identify gum disease before it progresses. During the exam, the dentist will:
- Check for plaque and tartar buildup.
- Measure gum pockets with a periodontal probe to determine the severity of gum recession.
- Assess the looseness of teeth and gum inflammation.
- Take dental X-rays to evaluate bone loss.
If gum disease is detected, the dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in treating severe gingival conditions.
Treatments to Maintain Healthy Gums
Gum disease is treatable, especially when caught early. The following treatments can help control gingival bleeding and restore gum health:
1. Scaling: Deep Cleaning Below the Gum Line
Scaling is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and hardened tartar from below the gumline. This process helps reduce inflammation and prevents bacteria from worsening gum disease.
2. Root Planing: Smoothing Tooth Roots
Dentists often perform root planing, which involves smoothing rough areas on the tooth roots. This technique makes it harder for bacteria to accumulate and helps the gums reattach to the teeth. Undergoing this procedure reduces periodontal pockets and prevents further damage.
3. Antibiotic Therapy: Fighting Infection
If gum disease has led to infection, antibiotic therapy may be necessary. Your practitioner may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to eliminate bacteria and reduce gum inflammation. In some cases, antimicrobial mouthwashes may also be recommended to aid healing.
Preventing Bleeding Gums
Follow these tips to keep your gums healthy:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
- Discontinue smoking, as it might result in periodontal inflammation or disease.
- Support gum health by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Bleeding gums should never be ignored, as they may indicate underlying oral health complications. Identifying the cause and seeking timely treatment can prevent periodontal disease leading to tooth loss. You can keep your gums healthy by practicing good oral hygiene, adjusting your brushing habits, and visiting your dentist regularly.
If experiencing persistent bleeding gums, visit our office at 13033 Bel-Red Rd, #220, Bellevue, WA 98005, United States, to address the issue before it worsens. Call us at (425) 276-0737 today and let our dentist personalize treatments to restore your periodontal health.