While brushing and flossing your teeth you may have noticed your gums bleeding. It’s important for you to understand that bleeding gums are not normal and should be taken seriously. Bleeding gums are frequently a sign that you may have gum disease, a bacterial infection of the gums that can lead to lost teeth and even overall health problems.
Effective treatment of gum disease is dependent on an early diagnosis and decisive intervention. This action can reduce the risk of the major complications associated with advanced stage gum diseases, such as tooth loss, bone loss, and receding gums.
Dr. Kara Marshall-Roppa and Dr. Dominic Roppa offer routine screenings for gum disease and a full range of periodontal therapy services to address the varying stages of gingivitis and periodontitis at their practice, Smile Viera in Viera, FL
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
There are many reasons you may be experiencing bleeding gums. Here are some of the most common ones:
Gum Disease
Regular and effective brushing and flossing are vital to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly or properly, you can accumulate plaque — a clear, sticky buildup. Naturally occurring bacteria that live in our mouth can cause inflammation and irritation of gum tissues as they consume 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 signs that you may have it is bleeding gums. At this early stage, gum disease is still reversible. Smile Viera can work with you to reverse the effects of gingivitis with a personalized treatment plan.
The longer that bleeding gums are left untreated, the more likely the infection in your gums will cause more damage so seeking treatment early is crucial. As gum disease progresses, your gums may recede and bacteria may settle in the gaps, which can cause loss of bone tissue and teeth becoming loose and falling out.
Medication
Certain types of medication have side effects that can make you more likely to have bleeding gums. For example, aspirin, birth control, and blood pressure medication can all cause bleeding gums. It is important to inform your dentist about the medications you are taking so he or she can determine if it is a factor contributing to your bleeding gums.
Pregnancy
The hormones in the body change when a woman is pregnant which can affect teeth and gums as well. Studies have shown that pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing gum disease.
If you are pregnant and notice any changes in your dental health like bleeding gums, please be sure to contact our team or your area dentist. Dr. Roppa or Dr. Marshall-Roppa 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 for Bleeding Gums?
It is important to see Drs. Roppa and Marshall-Roppa or your area 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, you may want to schedule an appointment with our team sooner.
Smile Viera is a respected dental practice Viera, FL that is committed to helping you achieve healthier teeth and gums. They can work with you to restore health and balance to your smile.
To schedule an appointment to treat bleeding gums or any other dental issue, you can call (321) 614-3833 or request an appointment online.