Why Do My Gums Bleed?

Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth?

Bleeding gums are a common symptom of a bacterial infection known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is a progressive disease that goes through several phases of development. Gum disease frequently goes undiagnosed until the later stages, when the teeth and gums have already become compromised.

We screen for gum disease during routine dental health exams as part of our comprehensive oral health care. Catching gum disease in its earliest stage can allow for conservative treatment options like a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing. More advanced gum disease may require more extensive treatment, such as laser therapy or oral surgery.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a very common dental concern. Nearly 70% of American Adults have some stage of gum disease. Patients of all ages could develop gum disease, but it is most prevalent in adult patients. Gum disease is progressive and worsens if left untreated.

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. Treating gum disease is essential for the prevention of secondary oral health complications. Gum disease causes the gums to become inflamed. Swollen and sensitive, the gum line can peel back from the teeth, leaving roots exposed, allowing teeth to shift or fall out. Patients should seek professional medical attention for gum disease at the first signs of the disease.

Patients who have gum disease may experience:

• Bleeding gums
• Swollen, tender gums
• White or red patches on their gums
• Change in the fit of an oral appliance
• Tooth sensitivity
• Halitosis

Left unchecked, disease-causing bacteria can enter the bloodstream. At this stage of periodontal disease, patients are at a higher risk of developing systemic complications. Studies show that patients with advanced gum disease experience higher instances of severe medical conditions.

Gum disease is believed to increase the risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Inflammation
• Heart attacks
• Strokes
• Diabetes

What Can I Do To Prevent Bleeding Gums and Gingivitis

The best way to manage gum disease is through preventative measures such as routine dental health exams and good at-home oral hygiene.

Preventative measures not only protect you from developing gum disease but also improve the health and aesthetics of your smile. Routine professional teeth cleanings can help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which attracts disease-causing bacteria. Biannual appointments allow dentists to notice any early signs of gum disease before it develops, providing for more effective treatment.

• Brush at least twice per day: Brushing after meals will help remove food debris and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums. Don't forget to include your tongue, as bacteria will form there as well.
• Floss after brushing: Flossing at least once a day helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth and along the gum line that your toothbrush can't quite reach.
• Use mouthwash: Using mouthwash can help reduce plaque and remove the remaining food particles that brushing and flossing missed.
• Eliminate bad habits: Tobacco products are not only horrible for your body, but they also increase the chances of gum disease and cancer in your mouth and throat.

Double A Dental Group Offers Dental Hygiene Services in Montclair, California

Our team is also trained in laser therapy. Laser therapy is a state-of-the-art technology that, in many cases, can eliminate the need for gum surgery in advanced cases of periodontal disease. Laser therapy eliminates bacterial pockets and stimulates the natural healing process. Laser treatment is minimally invasive and requires no sutures or long downtimes.

During your routine dental exams, our dental care team can make personalized recommendations for improving your oral health. Our team can make suggestions on better brushing techniques and may suggest anti-bacterial mouth rinses.