Gum disease is a widespread disorder that affects millions of people in the United States. But what causes it, and how does the disease develop? Understanding the causes of the disease and taking the right steps can reduce your risk of developing periodontal problems.
Healthy gums do not bleed. If your gums bleed, you could be showing early stages of periodontal disease, or gum disease. It occurs when bacteria found in the plaque builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. Gingivitis and gum inflammation are the early signs that precede advanced periodontitis.
However, not all gingivitis will progress into gum disease if you seek bleeding gums treatment promptly. Know the signs and symptoms of gum disease to prevent bleeding gums, and seek treatment sooner than later.
Signs of Gum Disease
Look for these symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis before they progress further. Common signs of gum disease to look out for include:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen gums
- Gums red at the top
- Loose teeth
- Shifting teeth
- Halitosis, or bad breath
- Mouth sores
- Receding gums
- Toothaches
- Tender gums
Gum Disease Risk Factors
To understand and prevent gingivitis or periodontitis, know the conditions that make you more prone to gum disease. Poor oral hygiene allows plaque and tartar to coat the teeth. This biofilm is the result of bacteria breaking down food particles and can irritate the gum tissue, causing inflammation.
Smoking and tobacco use can make the inflammation worse. In addition, certain medications and treatments can also cause inflamed gums. You may also be genetically predisposed to developing the disease. Common risk factors can include:
- Smoking and using chewing tobacco
- Poor Nutrition
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Certain medications
- Pregnancy
- A vitamin deficiency
- Stress
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
The disease often starts as inflammation, also known as gingivitis. Inflamed gums may appear cherry red and feel sore. Then, the tissue pulls away from your teeth and forms pockets at the gum line. Once bacteria invade the pockets, the disease begins to take hold and cause damage.
Patients will experience bleeding when brushing and flossing, gum recession, and bad breath. In the late stages (periodontitis) you will have loose teeth or even teeth that are falling out.
You can prevent gum disease with regular checkups and dental appointments. Visiting the dentist more often and brushing and flossing teeth twice a day can combat gum disease and improve overall tooth and gum health. But if gingivitis or periodontitis gets worse, treatments can become expensive and time-consuming. Dr. Shulman has treatment options that can prevent further infection and help heal your teeth and bleeding gums.
Gum Disease Treatment in Northeast Philadelphia, PA
Following a thorough exam, Dr. Shulman may use a combination of scaling and root planing, or a deep cleaning. He may also prescribe an antibacterial rinse, and restorative dentistry to treat gum disease. The type of treatment you need will depend on the stage and severity of existing disease.
Scaling and root planing is a process of removing plaque and tartar from the deep pockets of your gums. Normal gums do not have deep pockets, only detached and infected gums. After removing the infection, your gums will begin their natural healing process.
Our team provides personalized care for patients who suffer from chronic gum disease and a medical condition, like diabetes. Routine dental care plays a key role in keeping the gums healthy, and allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment when symptoms arise.
To learn more about your gum disease treatment options, visit Periodontal therapy. If you are developing gum disease, schedule an appointment by calling our Philadelphia dental office at (215) 372-1142.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Bleeding gums are a common dental problem that we address in our dental office. We believe that the more knowledge you have about this condition, the easier it will be for you. Hopefully we can answer all your questions about bleeding gums so that you understand your condition and take steps to improve your oral health.
Is poor or inconsistent oral health what causes gums to bleed?
Yes, not taking care of your mouth properly at home can cause bleeding and inflammation in your gums. Usually, the triage of excess plaque buildup, aggressive brushing, and gingivitis cause gums to bleed excessively. If you have bleeding and inflammation in your gums, it is important to see your dentist for treatment.
Can having low levels of vitamin C cause my gums to bleed?
Yes, having low levels of vitamin C may cause a patient’s gums to bleed. Having a deficiency in vitamin K can also contribute to gum bleeding. Taking supplements of vitamin C and K can help solve patients’ issue of red and bleeding gums before the issue turns into gum disease.
Why are my gums bleeding while flossing?
Neglecting your teeth causes a buildup of plaque in and around the gums. This plaque and tartar eats away at your gums and causes gums to bleed every time you floss. Sensitive gums while flossing is most commonly because of poor overall oral health.
Your gums should not be bleeding while you are flossing. If this is a recurring result of flossing then you should talk to your dentist.
When should bleeding gums become a concern?
Bleeding gums are extremely common, but this does not mean that you should ignore the issue. Schedule an appointment with our dentist to discuss what could be causing your persistent bleeding gums.