Are Bleeding Gums Normal?
Bleeding gums are not normal. If you notice bleeding gums during your oral hygiene routine, you may want to visit our Fayetteville dentist office.
In some cases, bleeding gums are the result of aggressive brushing. For most patients, bleeding gums is an indication of early-stage gum disease. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums. When diagnosed early, the effects of gingivitis can be reversed. However, patients with bleeding gums will need to work closely with their dentist to combat gingivitis and reduce their risk of gum disease in the future.
At Greenway Dental Care, Greenway Dental Care provides comprehensive dental care for patients with gum disease. We can work with you to assess your risk for gum disease and build a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What is Gum Disease?
At its core, gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, which causes inflammation around the teeth. Gum disease is often categorized into two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis occurs when dental plaque isn’t properly removed. When dental plaque isn’t removed, it turns into tartar or calculus. Tartar can only be removed through professional dental cleaning. The bacteria in plaque can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis.
Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. In this advanced form of gum disease, not only are the gums affected but so is the bone and teeth that are surrounding the gums. During periodontitis, the gums will start to recede from the teeth and form deep periodontal pockets. Over time, the pockets fill with plaque and bacteria. Due to their location, the pockets are difficult to clean, which may ultimately result in tooth and bone loss.
What Are The Signs of Gum Disease?
The signs of gum disease can vary from patient to patient. In some cases, patients may not exhibit any symptoms at all, which is why routine screenings are an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Common signs of gum disease may include:
- Swollen, red gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- White or red spots on your gums
- Receding Gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Change in the fit of your full or partial dentures
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
Routine screenings and regular professional dental cleanings are a key part in the prevention of gum disease. It also allows our team to spot early signs of gum disease and recommend the most appropriate solutions.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
The treatment for gum disease will depend on the specifics of a patient’s case. For early-stage gum disease, it can be treated through establishing a more consistent oral hygiene routine and routine professional dental cleanings.
If a patient has diabetes or is an avid smoker or tobacco uses, these factors will need to be addressed to treat gum disease and prevent future reinfection.
Greenway Dental Care will examine the gums, teeth, and surrounding bone structure to determine the best treatment for you.
Treatment options for gum disease may include:
- Scaling & root planing
- Laser Dentistry
- Antibacterial rinse
- Oral surgery
- Specialist care
Schedule An Appointment
If you notice any changes in your dental health, you may want to schedule a visit to our Fayetteville dentist office. Greenway Dental Care and our dental care team can determine if your symptoms are an indication of a more complex dental issue. We offer a full range of solutions for patients with gum disease. To schedule an appointment, call (479) 217-3178 or request an appointment online.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
How can I cure bleeding gums?
If you just noticed your gums bleeding, you may want to take extra steps to make sure your teeth and gums are clean. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist every six months. Visiting your dentist will help determine if you have the beginning stages of gum disease. They will be able to offer treatment to reverse your gum disease if it is caught in the early stages.
Why are my gums bleeding if I brush my teeth everyday?
Some people suffer from bleeding gums because they brush their teeth too hard. You only need to apply enough pressure so that you feel the bristle against your gums. If the bristles are pressed too hard on your gums, you are using too much pressure to brush your teeth and that may result in bleeding gums. Be sure you are also using a soft bristle toothbrush. Make sure you are also taking your time and rushing to get your teeth cleaned. Replacing your toothbrush every 3 months will makes sure it is cleaning your teeth properly. If you are still worried about your gums bleeding, please discuss it with your dentist at your next routine appointment.
Does my diet affect my gum health?
If your diet is lacking in certain vitamins and nutrients, this can make your gums more susceptible to infection and gum disease. Problems with your gums may lead to your gums becoming swollen, inflamed, tender and they may bleed. Eating a well-balanced diet will help support your gum health.