A small amount of blood in the sink after every time you brush or floss your teeth is not a good sign. Bleeding gums is the most obvious sign of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease progression. Gum disease is one of the most common dental concerns that affect patients of all ages.
Your local dentist office in downtown Chicago, IL, is here to help you preserve the health of your gums. Our team helps you prevent gum disease progression by offering thorough oral health and wellness appointments.
Our top dentist in Chicago will professionally clean your gums and dental structures during routine preventive care appointments. We can also offer restorative dental services for patients who have severe gum disease.
What are the Causes of Bleeding Gums?
Contrary to what many people think, bleeding gums are not normal and signals that something may be wrong. Bleeding gums are a common and often concerning symptom, but one that can have many causes. The most common cause of bleeding gums is poor oral hygiene.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria around the gum line. Plaque is a bacteria-filled substance that builds up on teeth and irritates the gums. Not only will it lead to bleeding gums, but plaque is also responsible for tooth decay and bone loss.
If a dentist does not properly remove plaque, it will cause inflamed and bleeding gums and lead to gingivitis. Thus, most people will experience bleeding gums when they floss or brush their teeth. But did you know that you can remove plaque with excellent daily oral hygiene and regular dental visits?
Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, diabetes, and certain medications. In some cases, bleeding gums indicate a serious underlying condition such as gum disease or a severe gum infection. Speak with our dentist if you experience recurring bleeding gums to determine the cause and receive the best treatment.
Signs of Gum Disease
If you allow your bleeding gums to progress into gingivitis, it can severely affect your overall dental health. Gum disease can lead to a number of complications and treatments over time. Patients who have gum disease may experience a number of symptoms, such as gum numbness, loose teeth, and jawbone pain. Other signs and symptoms may include the following:
- Bleeding, tender gums
- Red, inflamed gums
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Mouth pain and bleeding
- Swelling of the cheeks and neck
- Swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Shifting of teeth
- Tooth loss
Patients who continue to neglect their oral health may be risking their overall health and wellbeing. Gum disease is a chronic and progressive condition that can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, modern treatments are available that can help relieve the symptoms of severe periodontal disease. Our dentists can provide periodontal treatments to help restore the health of your gums and prevent further damage. To learn more about treatments for bleeding gums, see Periodontal disease treatment.
Bleeding Gums Treatment in Chicago, IL
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, and it is important to seek treatment before the condition worsens. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help treat bleeding gums. Some of the most common treatments for bleeding gums include gently brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash, taking antibiotics. The best treatment is to get a deep cleaning procedure at our Chicago dental office.
How to Avoid Bleeding Gums
You can avoid developing bleeding gums by maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine at home. Also visit our Chicago dental office at least once every six months for cleanings. These oral hygiene habits will significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
You should brush and floss your teeth twice a day or more, once in the morning and once at night. This will help decrease the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth, and your likelihood of developing gum disease.
My Gum Disease has Already Progressed Past Gingivitis. What Can I Do?
Unaddressed plaque and tartar buildup surrounding your gum line cause gum disease. To help patients restore their smiles following gum disease progression, our office offers comprehensive periodontal treatment services. These services include a wide range of restorative solutions that allow us to clear your gums of harmful bacteria.
The longer this buildup remains on your dental structures, the more likely it is to cause damage. If you suspect that you are showing signs of gum disease progression, the best thing to do is to contact our office. We will ensure that we see you promptly to avoid the need for invasive procedures if at all possible.