Bleeding Gums: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Bleeding gums are often a warning sign of periodontal (gum) disease, a chronic and progressive condition that remains the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, more so than tooth decay. At Sonoran Vista Dentistry, we offer periodontal services with a focus on the prevention, treatment, and management of periodontal disease to enhance your oral health and overall quality of life.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a chronic and progressive inflammatory condition affecting the gums, bone, and connective tissues that keep your teeth firmly in place. Bleeding gums may indicate gingivitis, the early-stage gum disease, which is often reversible with proper treatment coupled with good oral hygiene habits. If not treated, gingivitis can continue to progress, leading to a more serious and destructive form of periodontal disease known as periodontitis. The infection and inflammation can cause gum recession and damage the bone and tissues supporting your teeth, leading to tooth pain and sensitivity, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
What Are the Causes of Periodontal Disease?
The leading cause of periodontal disease is an inadequate home oral hygiene routine. Without brushing and flossing regularly, plaque and tartar can gradually build up on your teeth and gum line, irritating the gum tissue and leading to inflammation. Additional risk factors include missing regular dental exams and cleaning appointments, the natural aging process, a genetic predisposition, smoking or using tobacco products, certain medications, or chronic conditions, such as diabetes. Hormonal changes, including those occurring during pregnancy, can also elevate the risk of periodontal disease.
What Is the Link Between Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health?
Periodontal disease affects more than your smile. Studies show a strong connection between the chronic inflammation and infection and various systemic health issues, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and even pregnancy complications.
What Are the Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease?
In its early stages, periodontal disease may not produce any symptoms, which is why it often goes unnoticed. That’s why it’s essential to visit Sonoran Vista Dentistry for your twice-yearly dental exams and prophylaxis cleanings. Dr. Head and his team will monitor your oral health and recommend treatment, if needed, to restore your gum health.
As the gum inflammation and infection progress, you may experience the following warning signs:
- Red, puffy gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Tooth and gum pain, tenderness, and sensitivity
- Receding gums that leave the teeth looking longer
- Mouth sores or pus between the teeth
- A noticeable change in your bite or ill-fitting dentures
- Loose teeth and tooth loss
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
The first line of defense against gingivitis and periodontal disease is known as scaling and root planing (SRP). The non-surgical deep dental cleaning involves gently removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from along and below your gum line and smoothing your tooth root surfaces. The thorough cleaning helps discourage further plaque and bacteria accumulation and promotes gum healing and reattachment to the tooth surfaces.
After scaling and root planing, you’ll need to schedule periodontal maintenance appointments every 3 – 4 months to closely monitor your gum health. During your visits, we will gently clean your teeth, assess the inflammation or infection, and may measure the periodontal pocket depths.
An important component of your periodontal maintenance plan is to maintain meticulous at-home oral hygiene practices, including thorough brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Our goal at Sonoran Vista Dentistry is to keep your gums as healthy as possible and keep your teeth intact.
How Can You Lower Your Risk of Periodontal Disease?
Prevention is key to lowering your risk of periodontal disease. We recommend brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily to remove any plaque or food particles that may irritate your gums and cause inflammation. Beyond at-home care, regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are critical for maintaining your gum health. During your twice-yearly visits, our team at Sonoran Vista Dentistry will remove plaque and stubborn tartar buildup and look out for early signs of gum disease, ensuring it is addressed before it becomes a more serious problem.
In addition to at-home care and professional care, your lifestyle plays a significant role in keeping your gums healthy and sound. Make sure you maintain a healthy, balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid tobacco products to reduce your risk of gum disease. Our team at Sonoran Vista Dentistry is always happy to offer personalized tips and guidance on healthy habits for long-term healthy smiles.
Periodontal Care Near Me in Gilbert, AZ
If you would like to learn more about maintaining your gum health, contact Sonoran Vista Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Head and his team offer comprehensive periodontal services to keep your smile at its best. We invite you to call (480) 545-0661 to schedule your appointment or use this link to request one today!