Are Bleeding Gums a Cause for Concern?

While bleeding gums can be caused by a few different circumstances, they are most often the result of poor oral health. When this is the case, gingivitis, also known as gum disease, has likely already set in.

Gingivitis is one of the most common diseases in the nation. At any given time, more than half of men and women over the age of 30 have it, according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). If left untreated, gum disease can progress to a more serious infection called periodontitis that can lead to tooth loss and even serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Studies have shown that when these health issues were already present in the body, periodontitis made them worse.

Although gingivitis has the potential to wreak havoc on your health, it is entirely preventable and treatable. Here are a couple of tips for preventing gum disease and the symptoms that come with it.

How to Prevent Bleeding Gums

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Gum disease is caused by infection, which is a result of excess plaque and bacteria in the mouth. The best way to prevent excess plaque and bacteria is to practice regular oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least two times a day and flossing daily. If you are particularly susceptible to infection, your dentist may recommend brushing your teeth more often.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Sometimes the signs of gingivitis are difficult to notice, which is why it is very important to visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and assessment of your oral health. By checking the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth, your dentist can determine how healthy your gums are and make suggestions for improvement.

How Gum Disease Is Treated

Gum disease can be treated during a professional dental cleaning. As plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gum line, the source of the infection is removed, and the gums are then able to heal. If deeper cleaning is needed, your dentist can perform laser plaque and tartar removal or scaling and root planing, which involves a local anesthetic to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup. If gum disease has reached and damaged the bone, surgical techniques can be used to restore it.

Dr. Chad Tomazin is a highly qualified dental practitioner dedicated to providing ultimate patient comfort and satisfaction. If you are interested in general or cosmetic dental services in the Riverside, CA area, please schedule your appointment today by calling (951) 686-3666. Or, for your convenience, you may fill out our online contact form.