If you’re like many people, you might think bleeding gums are normal. While you might attribute blood-tinged floss to aggressive flossing, there’s often a more serious issue at hand. While pushing too hard can make your gums bleed, it’s often the result of a preventable infection call periodontal disease. Although your bleeding gums might seem minor, if you don’t treat the infection, you might eventually lose your teeth. Your dentist in Montrose can stop the bleeding and restore your gum health with periodontal therapy.
Causes of Bleeding Gums
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or snapping floss between your teeth can cause your gum tissue to bleed; however, if you’re careful with your brushing and flossing techniques, the underlying issue is probably periodontal disease. The preventable infection often results from poor oral hygiene habits that cause a buildup of tartar near the gum line. The accumulation hosts bacteria that irritates and inflames the gingival tissue. Over time, the gums may bleed.
Initially, bleeding gums might not seem concerning, but if the infection isn’t treated, it will destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. While it can be treated without any long-term damage in the early stages, it often progresses in severity, leading to tooth loss. The infection can also enter your bloodstream, increasing your risk of several health complications, like heart disease, respiratory infections, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Treating Bleeding Gums
You can restore your gum health by improving your oral hygiene habits at home. If you aren’t brushing your teeth before going to bed, it’s time to get into the habit of brushing twice a day. You also need to floss your teeth daily. If you don’t notice an improvement in your gum health, don’t wait to contact your dentist. They will likely recommend a deep cleaning, better known as scaling and root planing. The procedures remove the buildup and smooth the root surfaces of your teeth to allow the gum tissue to reattach to restore a healthy gum line.
Preventing Bleeding Gums
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of adults in the U.S. have a form of the infection, but that doesn’t mean you can’t avoid it. There are several things you can do to keep gum disease at bay:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session.
- Floss your teeth every night before going to bed.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
- Don’t drink alcohol in excess.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you notice your gums are bleeding, don’t wait for irreversible damage to occur. Make the appropriate changes at home and contact your dentist for treatment.
About Dr. Donald F. Tamborello
For over 3 decades, Dr. Tamborello has provided high-quality dental care to the community. Besides earning his dental degree, he is also a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, this highest of honors possible from the organization. Dr. Tamborello offers the exceptional care your teeth and gums need to thrive. Contact our office today for an appointment.