Have you noticed that your gums are bleeding when your brush and floss your teeth? It’s important for you to recognize that bleeding gums are not normal and should be taken seriously. Bleeding gums are often a warning sign that you may have gum disease, a bacterial infection of the gums that can lead to lost teeth and even serious overall health problems.
Early diagnosis and intervention for gum disease can help you reduce the risk of complications associated with allowing gum disease to reach the advanced stage, such as tooth loss, bone loss, and receding gums.
Dr. Albert Caves of Caves Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers routine screenings for gum disease and a full range of periodontal therapy services to address the varying stages of gingivitis and periodontitis.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
There are many reasons you may experience bleeding gums but below are the most common reasons for bleeding gums:
Gum Disease
Regular and effective brushing and flossing are absolutely necessary in order to maintain healthy teeth and gums. When you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly or properly, you can accumulate plaque — a clear, sticky buildup — on and between your teeth. Naturally occurring bacteria that live in our mouth can cause inflammation and irritation of gum tissues as they feast on the plaque. This eventually leads to the stage of gum disease clinically known as gingivitis.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and one of the most common signs of it is bleeding gums. At this stage, your gum disease is still reversible. Dr. Caves and his team can work with you to reverse the effects of gingivitis with a personalized treatment plan.
It is important to remember, the longer that bleeding gums are left untreated, the worse the infection will become. As gum disease progresses, your gums may recede, which may allow bacteria to work its way into the tissue below the gum line. If this happens, it can increase your risk of bone and tooth loss.
Medication
Certain types of medication cause side effects that can increase the risk of bleeding gums. For example, aspirin, birth control, and blood pressure medication can all cause bleeding gums as a side effect. It is important for you to keep Dr Caves or your area dentist informed about the medications you are taking so he or she can determine if it is a factor contributing to your bleeding gums.
Pregnancy
The hormone levels in the body change when you are pregnant. Research shows that pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing gingivitis.
If you are pregnant and notice any changes in your oral health like bleeding gums, please be sure to contact our team or your area dentist. Dr. Caves or your area dentist can work with you to help improve your dental health and discuss ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy while pregnant.
When Do I Need to See a Dentist?
It is vital to visit the dentist at least twice a year for a routine dental exam, screening, and professional dental cleaning. However, if you become aware of any changes in your dental health such as bleeding gums, you may want to schedule an appointment with our team sooner.
Dr. Caves is an experienced dentist in Columbus, GA who is committed to helping you achieve healthier teeth and gums. He can work with you to restore health and balance to your smile. To schedule an appointment, you can call (706) 407-4851 or request an appointment online.