Why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?
As gum disease progresses, bacteria spread throughout the gum line, forming deep periodontal pockets. These pockets cause the gum line to pull from the surface of teeth. Gums become irritated, inflamed, and sensitive to the touch. Brushing and flossing can agitate the already sensitive, inflamed gum tissue causing them to bleed.
Bleeding gums are not normal and should be addressed. If your gums bleed regularly, contact Claremont Dental Institute.
If your gums frequently bleed while you are brushing or flossing your teeth, it may indicate the presence of gum disease. Gum disease is common, occurs in patients of all ages, and can commonly be prevented or managed with an improved oral hygiene routine and professional teeth cleanings.
Bleeding Gums in Claremont, CA
At Claremont Dental Institute, our dentists screen for gum disease as part of our routine dental exams. We provide comprehensive treatment options for restoring health to smiles affected by all stages of gum disease. The dentist determines the course of treatment by the overall health of the patient’s smile as well as the stage and progression of the gum disease. We combined state-of-the-art dental technology, laser therapy, and deep cleanings to help patients repair and rebuild healthy, stable, beautiful smiles.
Healthy gums are essential for a stable, functional smile. Gum tissues help to hold teeth in place and protect the tooth root from exposure or damage. Gum disease compromises the gum tissue and causes the gum line to recede. Claremont Dental Institute offers laser treatment that promotes healing and recontours the gumline repairing damage caused by gum disease.
Left untreated, gum disease can begin to impact your bodily health. Gum disease has been linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, inflammation, heart attacks, and strokes. Patients with diabetes or those who are obese have a higher risk of developing gum disease.
Patients with gum disease are more prone to:
- Chronic halitosis
- Tooth loss
- Receding gum line
- Tooth sensitivity
- Patchy red or white spots on their gums
- Swollen, tender gums
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Are bleeding gums serious?
Bleeding gums is very common, although it is not serious in some cases. Patients’ gums may bleed with excessive contact that may irritate the soft tissue causing inflammation. Bleeding gums is a common side-effect of brushing too hard. If you find that your gums bleed consistently, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist to ensure that you do not have gum disease.
How do you treat bleeding gums?
The best way to treat bleeding gums is to practice a more regimented oral care routine. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing at least once daily, and using mouthwash. Lowering stress levels and quitting smoking can also help your gums stop bleeding. You must visit the dentist for treatment if you have been diagnosed with gum disease.
Can salt water rinse heal gum infection?
Salt water rinses are a great way to soothe and heal gum infections. Rinsing with warm salt water draws out any infection and soothes the soft tissue reducing inflammation. Although, this does not cure bleeding gums due to gum disease.
Preventing Gum Disease, Maintaining Oral Wellness
Brushing and flossing twice daily for two full minutes is your first defense against the build-up of disease-causing oral bacteria. Daily oral hygiene removes debris and food particles and reduces the build-up of plaque and tartar on the surface of the teeth. Bacteria thrive off of plaque, multiplying and spreading throughout the oral cavity. Brushing and flossing well interrupt this cycle and help to manage oral bacteria.
Routine dental health exams are also important in preventing oral disease. Wellness visits allow your dentist to diagnose gum disease as soon as possible, preventing further deterioration of your teeth, gums, and jaw.
Professional teeth cleanings can help clear out plaque and tartar buildup in hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth. Your dental hygienist will thoroughly clean all surfaces of the teeth and gums. We recommend that patients get their teeth cleaned once every six months to maintain optimal oral health.