Ask the Dentist!
Bleeding Gums When You Brush: Is That Okay?
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. It typically starts as gingivitis (a mild form of reversible gum disease) and can progress to advanced periodontal disease (non-reversible gum disease with gum and bone loss). Gingivitis is easy to treat while periodontal disease requires professional treatment.
With gingivitis you may notice red, swollen gums that bleed easily when flossing or brushing. This type of gum disease can be treated with a professional cleaning followed by daily flossing and brushing twice a day. Within a few days you will notice the gums will look healthy without bleeding when flossing and brushing. Gingivitis can be prevented with regular cleanings and check ups by your dentist and maintaining good oral hygiene at home.
If gingivitis is not treated it can progress to periodontal disease, which can result in tooth loss. Because periodontal disease typically does not hurt the signs are usually ignored. Signs of periodontal disease include receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away. Periodontal disease does require professional treatment which may require a deep cleaning or even periodontal surgery. Left untreated periodontal disease will result in gum and bone loss leading to tooth loss. It’s also been shown that untreated periodontal disease can affect your heart. Again, along with professional treatment good oral hygiene at home is the key to treating periodontal disease.
Several things can put you at greater risk of developing gum disease. Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use (especially smoking), an illness that lowers your ability to fight off infections, medications that cause dry mouth and pregnancy.
If you have any signs of gum disease see your dentist before it’s too late. Early treatment is the best way to prevent tooth loss and infection. If you are in need of a new dentist, give our office a call at (225) 926-4203, or visit our website to schedule an appointment.