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For many people, seeing blood after brushing or flossing can be alarming. You may wonder if it is temporary or a sign of a deeper problem. Bleeding gums are one of the earliest signs of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. It can lead to serious complications if you ignore it. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage gum disease, beginning with timely diagnosis and proper care.
This article will explore the options for gum disease treatment for bleeding gums.
Understanding Gum Disease and Bleeding Gums
Before discussing treatments, it is important to understand why your gums may be bleeding.
Bleeding gums can stem from gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along your gum line. This buildup can irritate the gums, making them inflamed, swollen, and prone to bleeding.
Unaddressed gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. Periodontitis damages the soft tissues that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. It can also harm bone tissue.
Other possibilities include brushing too hard, grinding your teeth, or nutrition problems. It can also occur due to specific medications.
Do not ignore bleeding gums, especially if it happens even without brushing. Bleeding gums are most often a sign that there is something wrong.
Seeking treatment early can prevent more severe consequences down the line.
Gum Disease Treatment for Bleeding Gums
Treating bleeding gums and gum disease involves steps that target the root causes of the problem.
The treatment approach depends on the disease’s severity and the specific needs of each patient.
Proper Oral Hygiene Practices
One of the most effective ways to combat early gum disease is having good oral hygiene.
Brushing your teeth and flossing twice daily removes plaque buildup, which is the leading cause of bleeding gums.
Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to reduce irritation. Consider mouthwashes that are formulated to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
It is important to understand how to brush and floss correctly to maintain oral hygiene. Your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate the proper techniques and give you pointers.
Professional Dental Cleaning (Oral Prophylaxis)
For gingivitis or mild gum disease, professional dental cleaning may be enough. Cleaning might be enough to restore gum health.
During a cleaning, the dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing cannot reach.
Tartar is hardened plaque, and it must be removed professionally. It cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Removing it near the gumline reduces inflammation and helps the gums heal.
To maintain healthy gums, schedule dental cleanings at least twice a year.
Scaling and Root Planing
When bleeding gums are accompanied by early-stage periodontitis, scaling and root planing may be required. These are non-surgical procedures often referred to as deep cleaning.
Scaling removes accumulated tartar and bacteria beneath the gumline.
Root planing smooths the root surfaces of your teeth. This prevents bacteria from reattaching and promoting gum reattachment.
This procedure helps reduce inflammation, stop bleeding, and prevent further damage to the gums and bone.
Medication and Mouth Rinses
Your dentist may recommend medication or antimicrobial mouth rinses to control bacterial growth.
These can include the following treatments depending on the severity of your condition:
- Antibiotic gel or tablets to fight infection
- Antimicrobial rinses to reduce bacteria around your gums
- Prescription toothpaste containing fluoride for stronger protection against tartar
These treatments are often combined with other interventions, like professional cleaning or scaling, for best results.
Gum Surgery
When gum disease is advanced, surgical intervention may become necessary. Depending on the extent of the condition, your dentist might recommend one of these surgical treatments.
Flap surgery involves lifting the gums to remove bacteria trapped underneath and securing the gums back in place.
Bone grafting is another option. It helps regenerate lost bone tissue caused by severe periodontitis.
Soft tissue grafting corrects gum recession by adding tissue. This may be taken from another area of your mouth or a donor source.
Surgery aims to restore the health of your gums and prevent tooth loss by addressing the most severe cases.
Lifestyle Changes
Managing gum disease often means making healthier choices. You can start by quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products. These habits worsen gum disease by promoting plaque buildup and hindering healing.
Quitting not only allows your gums to recover but also reduces the risk of severe problems, such as tooth loss or oral cancer. Seeking support from health professionals or a cessation program can make this change easier.
Improving your diet is just as essential. Vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers help repair gum tissue.
Calcium-packed options like milk, cheese, and leafy greens strengthen teeth and bones, supporting healthy gums.
These simple dietary shifts can reduce inflammation, boost healing, and enhance oral health.
Regular Dental Checkups
Seeing your dentist regularly is important for keeping your gums healthy and stopping gum disease.
During checkups, the dentist looks for early signs of problems, like red or swollen gums. They will also clean away buildup that brushing and flossing cannot remove. They can adjust your treatment as well to fit your needs.
Regular visits can prevent small problems from becoming big ones, saving you pain, money, and time. By addressing issues early, these checkups help you keep a healthy and happy smile.
Best Gum Disease Treatment for Bleeding Gums in Eugene, OR
Bleeding gums are a common yet serious problem that should prompt immediate action. Left untreated, gum disease can have lasting consequences for your oral and overall health. There are many effective treatment options for bleeding gums. From proper oral hygiene to professional cleanings, scaling, and even surgical options, your dentist can help.
If you are experiencing bleeding gums or other symptoms of gum disease, trust 360 Dental’s Dr. Ari Binder to provide expert and compassionate care. Call (541) 689-1645 today, or schedule a consultation to take the first step toward a healthier smile.
We look forward to serving you!
