Bleeding gums may just be a sign you are brushing or flossing too vigorously. But did you know it could also be a symptom of periodontal disease? Nearly 80% of American adults will experience gum disease at some point in their life. If diagnosed early, gum disease can be treated, and further associated oral health damage may be avoided.
About Bleeding Gums Annapolis, MD
Bleeding gums are a more common dental concern that people don’t take seriously and seek help in the beginning stages. When gum disease goes left untreated, you may develop advanced complex oral health and medical conditions.
If you are experiencing frequent bleeding of the gums, even after you have tried a softer toothbrush or softer brushing, you could be suffering from gingivitis. The beginning signs of gum disease are usually painless, so those at risk are usually unaware until the disease has begun to advance.
Gum disease remains a leading cause of tooth loss in adults today, making routine dental care an important part of the long-term maintenance of your smile.
Pregnant women can also experience bleeding gums due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. It is important to maintain regular dentist visits and be sensitive while brushing around sore gum areas.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums
A dentist should always handle the treatment of bleeding gums. Although it may be tempting to try over-the-counter medicines, gum disease is a serious issue that should be treated by a professional.
Gingivitis
If you have gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease, Dr. Sheen will remove plaque or build-up from the gums and teeth. We can also prescribe other special mouthwashes or topical treatments.
If your gums are bleeding on a regular basis, Annapolis dentist Dr. Sheen highly encourages scheduling a dentist office visit as soon as possible. When your dentist diagnoses it early, he can treat gum disease, and you can avoid long-term damage.
What happens if you do not treat gum disease?
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It can cause discomfort, redness, and swelling of the gums. Gingivitis is a bacteria infection of the buildup of plaque on gums and teeth.
What is Periodontitis?
When left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced dental health concern. It is caused by the spread of a gum infection into the ligaments and bones that support your teeth.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease. Treatment for advanced periodontal disease includes antibiotics, removing infected gum tissue, and the scalping of the gum surface.
Periodontitis Can:
- Cause Gums To Recede
- Deteriorate Bone Structure
- Loosen Teeth
- Cause Teeth To Shift
- Lead To Tooth Loss
Advanced Gum Disease Is Linked To An Increase In:
- Heart Attacks
- Strokes
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Low Birth Weights
Undiagnosed and untreated periodontal disease can lead to more extensive and expensive restorative dental treatments. It can also cause deterioration in your overall health. You should never ignore bleeding gums.
Why do I Have Gum Disease?
Many people associate gum disease with poor oral health. There are other factors that contribute to gum disease besides poor oral hygiene. Smoking, a poor diet, high-stress levels, and even genetics can all contribute to the development of periodontitis.
Some of these risk factors are out of our control, so even if you maintain your oral hygiene routine, make sure you visit our dentist in Annapolis, MD for yearly gum disease screenings.
To avoid invasive treatment, it is important to catch gum disease at its beginning stage. If you are experiencing sore or bleeding gums, contact Annapolis-based dentist Dr. Sheen to schedule an appointment.