Why do my gums bleed when I brush or floss?
Although bleeding gums can be the result of aggressive brushing and flossing, it is more common that it is the result of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is caused by plaque buildup in the mouth. Over time, the bacteria from plaque can begin to break down the teeth, gums, and jaw bone, resulting in severe complications for your dental and overall health.
Frequent bleeding in the gums is not a normal occurrence and should be addressed as soon as possible. If gum disease is present, early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to prevent damage to the teeth, gums and supporting bone structure.
Asheville periodontist Dr. Jody Harrison offers personalized solutions for treating bleeding gums and other common signs of existing gum disease. He will work with you to build a comprehensive treatment plan to treat all your dental needs.
Signs of Gum Disease
Signs and symptoms of gum disease vary from patient to patient. It is important that patients know the signs of gum disease in order to notice any changes in their dental health. Some of the most common signs of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Shifting teeth
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- Change in the fit of your dentures
Preventing Gum Disease
Healthy gums are essential to a healthy smile. Strong, stable gums help keep the teeth intact, so if the gums are weak, it can result in shifting teeth, which can eventually result in tooth loss. Taking preventive measures to keep the gums healthy can benefit your dental health in the long run. Once the bacteria from the mouth spreads to the bloodstream, patients have a higher risk of developing system health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, heart attack, and stroke. The best tool to fight against gum disease is to practice these key preventive measures to improve your gum and oral health:
- Brush your teeth after each meal. Plaque begins to accumulate after every meal, so be sure to carefully brush your teeth to remove food particles and bacteria from the mouth.
- Floss your teeth on a daily basis. Daily flossing can effectively remove debris from between your teeth.
- Schedule routine dental visits. Routine dental visits allow your dentist to check for signs of dysfunction in your teeth and gums. This is a time where your dentist can diagnose gum disease and recommend the most effective solutions to restore health to your gums.
Thorough home care and preventive dental care can greatly improve your dental health. Dr. Harrison can work with you to create a preventive dental care plan that works best for you and keeps the gums healthy between visits. Some patients need to visit their general dentist for professional exams and cleanings more often if they have chronic gum disease or more complex concerns.
What Are My Treatment Options For Bleeding Gums?
If bleeding gums are the result of gum disease, Dr. Harrison will assess the condition of your teeth and gums and build a treatment plan to suit your dental needs. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the severity of gum disease and the extent of damage to the gums, teeth, and jawbone. Some of the most common treatment options include:
- Root & Scale Planing
- Periodontal Surgery
- Medication
- Periodontal Therapy
Request A Consultation
Asheville periodontist Dr. Harrison is dedicated to providing customized, comprehensive treatments plan for each of our patients. He is committed to staying up to date on the latest advancements in periodontics to give our patients the most effective treatment. If have notice bleeding gums or any other changes in your dental health, visit our Asheville, NC dentist office. To schedule an appointment, call (828) 255-8100 or request an appointment online.