Bleeding gums are one of the classic signs of gum disease. Sore gums and bleeding gums are often present in patients who have gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Sean Corry treats bleeding gums, gingivitis and gum disease through a wide range of general dentistry treatments.
What causes bleeding gums?
First, bleeding gums are not normal. Although bleeding gums is the most common sign of gingivitis and gum disease there are other causes of bleeding gums.
Bleeding gums can be the result of aggressive flossing or tooth brushing or even using a tooth brush with bristles that are too firm.
Bleeding gums are common during pregnancy. Hormonal changes taking place in the body can cause swollen and bleeding gums. Pregnant women should not allow this to put them off brushing and flossing but they should be careful around sensitive swollen gum tissue to prevent excessive bleeding. This is the most important time to attend for routine hygienist visits and dental checkups.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial infection. Gum disease may affect one or more teeth as well as the surrounding gums and bone. Common symptoms of gum disease include:
– Bleeding, red, sore or swollen gums
– Receding gums
– Loose teeth
– Mouth ulcers or pus between gum and teeth
– Bad breath (Halitosis)
– Change in fit of dentures
How should bleeding gums be treated?
You should only allow a dentist to diagnose the causes of bleeding gums and to treat bleeding gums. In the early stages of gum disease known as gingivitis the treatment may be simple plaque removal through scaling and polishing or simply instruction in home plaque removal with good tooth brushing and flossing or sometimes with anti bacterial mouth washes to reduce the inflammation and cure the gingivitis.
More advanced gum disease known as peroidontitis may require more intensive treatments. Scaling and root planning cleans bacteria from the pockets which have formed between the teeth and gums and sometimes surgery is indicated to completely clean the deeper pockets.
Our hygienist, Michelle is an integral part of our team and once your gum condition is evaluated during your comprehensive examination she will carry out most of the oral hygiene advice, oral hygiene instruction and corrective gum treatment to successfully treat your gum disease.