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See a specialist today about bleeding gums!
Why are my gums bleeding?
We all experience gum bleeding at some point in our lives. In some cases, the bleeding is merely the result of brushing too hard. Your gums can also bleed if you start flossing after a long time, in which case, your gums aren’t “used” to flossing. In both situations, bleeding stops naturally after a few days and there’s no reason to worry.
However, bleeding gums may be a symptom of gum disease. If bleeding continues for several days, schedule an appointment with us! We’ll help you diagnose and treat whatever is going on.
What causes bleeding gums?
The 2 main dental causes of bleeding gums are:
Gingivitis. This is the first stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up at your gum line, producing inflammation, tenderness, pain, and bleeding. When diagnosed and addressed on time, gingivitis can be stopped without further problems. But if it’s left untreated, it can lead to a more serious condition called periodontitis.
Periodontitis. Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gum disease caused by bacteria accumulation within your gums. In this condition, gums get infected, damaging the gum tissue and the bone, which may cause your teeth to loosen and fall out.
Symptoms
So, how can you know if you have gum disease? These are some signs to look out for:
- Swollen, red, tender gums
- Pain while chewing
- Sensitive teeth
- Bad breath
- Longer-looking teeth
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
If you experience some of these symptoms for 3 or more days, or if you just want to prevent gum disease from developing, our dentists in Salem are here to help you.
Treating and preventing gum disease
The best way to prevent gum disease (and bloody gums) is to maintain good dental health practices:
- Brush at least 2 times a day – and use a soft-bristled brush
- Floss your teeth at least once every day
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months
- Don’t skip your dental check-ups every 6 months
- Reduce stress, avoid smoking, and keep a healthy diet
Other causes of gum bleeding
In some cases, gum bleeding can be caused by other factors, like:
- Hormonal changes, such as those happening during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause
- The use of certain medications, like blood thinners and some anticonvulsants
- Vitamin deficiency. Gum bleeding can be a symptom of a lack of vitamin C or vitamin K
- Genetics. Dental diseases like gingivitis can be hereditary
- Type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes are more prone to develop infections like periodontitis
- Other diseases like leukemia and HIV
How can you stop bleeding gums?
If you’re dealing with bleeding gums and think you may have gum disease, you need to get a proper diagnosis first. At Healthy Smiles Family Dental, one of our highly experienced dentists will first assess your condition and then walk you through your options, depending on your particular case.
If you do have gum disease, the treatment will vary depending on the severity of your condition. In some cases, your dentist will recommend a deep cleaning, which consists of removing the plaque that has buildup below your gum line.
Can Perio Protect help?
At our office, your dentist may also recommend Perio Protect. This is a high-tech solution that you can use at home. Perio Protect is an innovative system that consists of custom-made trays with peroxide gel in them. This is a safe ingredient that has proved to kill gum-disease-causing bacteria while whitening your teeth.
Can I leave bleeding gums untreated?
Although it may not look serious at first, gum disease needs to be treated as soon as possible to avoid further complications. Not getting diagnosed and treated on time can lead to tooth loss, chronic bad breath, sensitive teeth, and other important dental issues. It can also make you more prone to other health issues, like diabetes and heart problems.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions but prefer not to call? Browse our FAQs for quick answers and a better understanding of our dental office and services.
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They act as artificial roots and support crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Most healthy adults who have missing or damaged teeth with sufficient jawbone density are good candidates. During your consultation, our team of expert dentists will assess your teeth and gums to see if implants are the right fit for you.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last 15 years or longer. With the right maintenance, possibly a lifetime.
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report minimal discomfort. Mild soreness tends to occur afterwards and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth—daily brushing and flossing with regular dental visits. These steps are essential for long-term success.
