What Are Signs of Gum Disease?
If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush and floss, you may be experiencing the beginning of gingivitis, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious gum disease. Fortunately, with proper oral care at home and regular visits to your dentist, the problem of bleeding gums and gingivitis is usually reversible.
Discuss the issue of bleeding gums with your dentist and dental hygienist at your next regular appointment. Through a procedure called periodontal probing—or measuring the depth of your gum tissue—your hygienist will determine whether your gums are receding. Your hygienist will also show you proper technique for brushing and flossing at home so your teeth are clean on the surfaces you can see and in between your teeth.
Your dentist will examine the overall positioning of your teeth, jaws, and existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, and bridges, to determine whether you have an alignment problem that is preventing you from effectively brushing and flossing. If necessary, your dentist will suggest treatment options. The periodontal probing will be repeated at future appointments to determine whether the health of your gums is improving or declining.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums, bone, and other tissues that hold your teeth in their proper place in your mouth. The main cause of gum disease is plaque build-up due to poor oral hygiene.
When only the gums are infected, gum disease is called gingivitis, a less severe, generally treatable form of gum disease. Early symptoms include redness, irritation, and swelling of your gums around your teeth at the base.
When gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the bones and connective tissues below the gums can become infected, requiring intervention as soon as possible. Periodontitis causes loose teeth and tooth loss if left untreated.
How Can I Treat Bleeding Gums at Home?
With proper oral care at home and regular visits to your dentist, you can effectively prevent bleeding gums and gingivitis. Take the following steps and make the suggested lifestyle adjustments for clean, healthy teeth and gums:
- Dental Routine. Brush at least twice a day and floss at lease once a day. Follow the instructions from your hygienist. Good dental care at home can remove bacteria from your mouth and can even help reverse early gum disease.
- Antiseptic Mouthwash. Adding antiseptic mouthwash to your home care routine can help reverse gingivitis by reducing bacteria in your mouth.
- Diet Improvements. Healthy foods and proper nutrients, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin K, will improve your oral health. Eat more fruits and vegetables and less sugary foods, including refined bread.
- Monitor Stress. Anxiety can affect your oral health. Stress can increase inflammation in your body, which in turn can make your gums bleed easily. Stress also reduces immune system effectiveness, making it harder for your body to fight infection.
- Stop Smoking. Cigarette smoking and tobacco use are bad for your overall health and especially your teeth and gums. Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight gum disease. Make every effort to quit smoking. Seek advanced help if you cannot quit on your own.
Lastly, regular visits to your dentist for comprehensive oral exams and professional cleanings are essential for monitoring and reversing gum disease. See your dentist at least once a year, but preferably every six months.
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