When you notice bleeding gums when you brush or floss, it’s a sign that you must go to the dentist. Often, bleeding gums are the earliest sign of gum disease. It’s reversible in its early stages but can become a permanent, debilitating condition that’ll continue to need management.
Bleeding gums is one of the dental concerns that Stone Creek Dental can treat. If you notice your gums bleeding regularly when you brush or floss, call our office to schedule a consultation.
The Stages of Gum Disease
The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. In this stage, the gums become red, swollen, and easily bleed when brushed or flossed. This is due to the body’s immune response to the bacteria in plaque. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to the next stage of gum disease, periodontitis.
Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease and is characterized by the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets become infected with bacteria, destroying the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and gum pain. Treatment for periodontitis may include deep cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and surgery in severe cases.
The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. In this stage, the destruction of the tissues and bones supporting the teeth is severe, leading to tooth loss and other complications. Advanced periodontitis requires aggressive treatment, such as surgical procedures to restore the damaged tissues and bones. It is crucial to seek treatment immediately to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
Treating Bleeding Gums in Denton, TX
The treatment for bleeding gums depends on the stage of gum disease. We usually treat gingivitis in the earliest stage with diligent oral healthcare. You may have to come into the office more often for deep cleanings. We may recommend certain oral healthcare products to help when you perform your oral healthcare routine at home. Sometimes, we’ll prescribe a microbial mouthwash to cut down on bacteria.
As the disease progresses, the primary treatment is scaling and root planing. With periodontitis, pockets form between the gum tissue and jawbone, collecting food debris and bacteria. We clean out those pockets and sterilize them to discourage further bacteria growth. Then, we smooth down the tooth roots so the gum tissue reattaches to the bone. We may need to repeat this process, depending on the circumstances.
Laser dentistry is a revolutionary way to treat gum disease. It can even manage severe gum disease, which only surgery could fix before. The heat energy cleans out gum pockets and sterilizes as it goes, keeping the infection from spreading. It targets diseased tissue specifically so that it doesn’t remove any healthy tissue during the process. Laser treatment is faster, less painful, and has a quicker recovery time compared to traditional methods.
Gum Disease and Health Conditions
Gum disease connects to other health conditions, including oral health problems, heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. The connection between gum disease and these other health conditions is still being studied, but research suggests that the inflammation caused by gum disease can spread to other parts of the body, leading to systemic health problems.
Heart disease is one of the most serious health conditions linked to gum disease. Studies have shown that people with gum disease are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes. The link between gum disease and heart disease is due to the inflammation caused by gum disease. This can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels and an increased risk of blood clots.
Diabetes is another health condition closely linked to gum disease. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, and gum disease can make it harder for them to control their blood sugar levels. This is because the inflammation caused by gum disease can make it more difficult for the body to use insulin effectively, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
Respiratory infections are also a potential complication of gum disease. You can inhale the bacteria that cause gum disease, leading to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. People with gum disease are more likely to develop respiratory infections, especially if they already have underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In addition to these health conditions, gum disease can also cause an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight in pregnant women. Studies have shown that pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to give birth prematurely or to babies with low birth weights. This is thought to be due to the inflammation caused by gum disease, which can trigger premature labor or restrict the baby’s growth in the womb.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bleeding Gums
How can I treat bleeding gums at home?
To help your gums stop bleeding at home, gently brush and floss twice daily to remove plaque. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and kill germs. Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies can also improve gum health. If bleeding continues, please schedule a dentist appointment for proper care and treatment.
Is it normal for gums to bleed while flossing?
Yes, it is common for gums to bleed a little bit when you first start flossing regularly. This is because your gums may be sensitive or inflamed from not regularly flossing. However, if your gums continue to bleed after a week or two of consistent flossing, it may be a sign of gum disease. Schedule a visit or talk to your dentist at your next check-up if your gums won’t stop bleeding.
Should I keep brushing if my gums are bleeding?
If your gums are bleeding when you brush, please do not ignore it. Bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease or that you are brushing too hard. You should still brush your teeth if they bleed but try using a softer toothbrush and being gentle. If the bleeding continues, you must see your dentist to figure out the cause and get the right treatment. Taking care of your gum tissue is vital for your overall dental health.
Are bleeding gums a dental emergency?
In some cases, bleeding gums are a dental emergency if there’s a lot of blood or pain. Don’t wait, call your dentist right away if you’re worried. Treatment can help stop the bleeding and keep your gums healthy. However, if gum disease is the likely cause, it is not considered an emergency. You should visit your dentist as soon as possible because the disease will progress without proper treatment.
How long will it take to heal my gums?
It usually takes about a week or two for bleeding gums to heal. However, you must brush and floss daily to help them improve faster. If your gums keep bleeding or if you have a lot of pain, you should see a dentist to make sure everything’s okay. Remember to be gentle when brushing so you don’t irritate your gums even more.
Can pregnancy cause bleeding gums?
Yes, pregnancy can sometimes cause bleeding gums. When a woman is pregnant, there are changes in hormones that can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding. This is called pregnancy gingivitis. Taking good care of your dental health by brushing and flossing often and seeing a dentist for check-ups is vital during pregnancy. If you notice bleeding gums during pregnancy, talk to your dentist about possible solutions.
How can I prevent bleeding gums?
To prevent bleeding gums, brushing and flossing your teeth every day is essential. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when brushing. Avoid hard foods that can harm your gums. Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Eating a healthy diet can also help keep your gums healthy. If you notice bleeding gums, talk to your dentist for advice on how to improve oral health.
Schedule an Appointment
Bleeding gums aren’t something you should brush to the side. Call our office or schedule an appointment online.
