If My Gums Bleed, Do I Need To See My Dentist?
Bleeding gums can be caused by various factors, some simple and others more serious. It's important to see your dentist in Fort Lauderdale to determine the cause and promptly get the correct treatment. A thorough exam with Dr. Nancy Rotroff or Dr. Gerard Wasselle at Excellence in Dentistry on Commercial Blvd. is your first step to healing your bleeding gums and restoring your oral health.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
- Brushing technique: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can irritate gums and cause bleeding. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a soft-bristled brush and a gentle massaging motion.
- Skipping flossing: If you have been skipping flossing for a while and then start again, your gums may bleed at first. This should improve after a week or so of consistent flossing.
- The wrong toothbrush: Contrary to popular belief, a soft-bristled brush cleans teeth just as effectively as a harder one. In fact, softer bristles are better for cleaning along the gumline.
- Smoking: While we are all familiar with the fact that smoking causes stained teeth and bad breath, you may not be aware that smoking weakens the immune system and reduces blood flow to the gums, making them more prone to bleeding and infection.
- Gum disease: Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is a common cause of bleeding gums. Plaque buildup irritates and inflames the gums, leading to bleeding. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious gum disease that can damage the bone supporting your teeth and lead to tooth loss.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women are also at higher risk of gingivitis, known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” due to hormonal changes. Because the hormonal changes disrupting your dental health are linked to your pregnancy, these oral health problems are likely to vanish soon after your baby is born.
- Poor oral hygiene: Failing to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily will lead to plaque and tartar buildup, increasing your risk of gingivitis and bleeding gums. Skipping your appointment for professional dental cleaning allows plaque to build up which irritates your gums and can possibly lead to decay. At your appointment for dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will remove plaque and review proper brushing technique.
- Medications: Certain medications, like blood thinners, can increase your risk of bleeding gums.
How Does My Dentist Treat Bleeding Gums?
Dr. Rotrff and Dr. Wasselle will prescribe treatment for your bleeding gums based on the cause. This treatment will start with improving oral hygiene with:
- Deep cleaning: Your dental hygienist will perform a scaling and root planing procedure to remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth and gums. If periodontal disease is diagnosed, you may require more frequent dental cleanings in order to maintain your oral health.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and gum inflammation.
- Medications: Antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses may be prescribed to fight infection or inflammation.
- Dental procedures: In severe cases, gum surgery or grafting may be needed to repair damaged gum tissue.
How Do I Prevent Bleeding Gums?
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush for two minutes twice a day and floss daily.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique. An electric toothbrush is also an excellent investment in your oral health.
- Quit smoking: Smoking cessation improves blood flow to the gums and helps healing.
- Eat a healthy diet: Ensure you get enough vitamin C to support gum health.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your Fort Lauderdale dentist at Excellence in Dentistry.
Looking for a dentist in Fort Lauderdale?
Excellence in Dentistry is a small, private dental office located at 2480 E. Commercial Boulevard. Dr. Rotroff and Dr. Wasselle have more than 60 years of combined experience providing the highest quality in patient care and our staff is friendly and helpful with all of your dental needs. See what our patients are saying: https://www.nancyrotroff.com/testimonials Instead of searching the internet for a dentist near me or dental clinic near me, call our office at 954-928-1666 to schedule an appointment today.
