Did you know that gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults? According to the American Dental Association, 3/4 of American adults suffer from some form of gum disease. One of the earliest signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. When intercepted early by the dentist, gum disease can be easily managed with little risk of further infection.
Buford, GA dentists Dr. Alla Brown and Dr. Amanda Newberry are highly experienced with preventive care and managed treatment of bleeding gums, gingivitis and gum disease. Our dentists in Buford understand the effects of gum disease and recommend that patients visit twice yearly for dental exams and teeth cleanings. These visits allow our doctors to help patients maintain optimal oral health. We strive to spot potential dental health issues, such as gum disease, in their early stages when conservative treatment is effective.
Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry take the time during preventive care visits to perform a thorough screening for the signs of gum disease. Common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Sores in the mouth
- Bad breath
- Changes in the bite or fit of dentures
In addition to regular visits, good at-home oral hygiene is important in preventing gum disease. Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry educate patients on proper brushing and flossing techniques to maximize their at-home routines. If you have any of the above mentioned signs of gum disease, or need to get back to the routine of regular preventive care, contact Lanier Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Buford to schedule an appointment today.
Treatment For Bleeding Gums in Buford, GA
If you have bleeding gums, contact our office or let us know at your next visit. There are a number of treatment options for bleeding gums depending on your condition:
- Dental Cleaning: The best way to fight gum disease and bleeding gums is prevention. Routine visits to the dentist will help remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, preventing bleeding or sore gums. Most patients that believe they have gum disease may just need a thorough dental cleaning.
- Scaling & Root Planing: If you have bleeding gums, your Lanier dentist may recommend an intensive cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. The dentist will remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets of the gum and smooth the surface of tooth roots.
- Periodontal Therapy: Patients with advanced stages of gum disease may be treated with more advanced procedures or gum surgery. Dr. Brown or Dr. Newberry may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist in gum disease, when needed.
How To Prevent Bleeding Gums
Aggressive brushing and flossing can cause bleeding gums, even when gum disease is not an issue. Always use a soft toothbrush and brush using a gentle, circular motion. Brushing back and forth can damage gums and make them more likely to bleed and/or recede.
When flossing, carefully slide the floss between teeth and gently follow the curve of each tooth. Forcing the floss up and down can cut gums, causing them to bleed.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
What causes a bleeding gum?
Bleeding gums can be caused by a variety of things such as plaque buildup, heart disease, diabetes, brushing too hard, and gingivitis. It can also signify a vitamin deficiency, specifically vitamin c. Another cause of bleeding gums in women may be pregnancy, or menstruation.
Which nutrient deficiency causes bleeding gums?
Having a vitamin deficiency can be the causation to your issue of bleeding gums. Having low levels of vitamin c is the main vitamin that contributes to this. Vitamin K also contributes to gum bleeding. Taking supplements of these, or eating foods high in vitamins may help if you are experiencing bleeding gums.
What does it mean if I have bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums often come from built up plaque in the gums. Plaque is full of germs and unhealthy bacteria that attack your healthy soft tissue in the gums. When the gums are being attacked they become red, and inflamed which may cause them to bleed, especially when brushing and flossing.
Is it okay for gums to bleed while flossing?
No- if your gums are bleeding while you are flossing, then you are not properly caring for your oral health. Bleeding gums while flossing is caused by built up plaque around the gums and inadequate care for your teeth and gums.