Posted on 3/3/2025 by Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona
Have you ever noticed your gums bleeding after brushing or flossing? While occasional bleeding may not seem like a big deal, it's actually an important sign that your oral health might be at risk. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease, a common and treatable infection of the gum tissues.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by plaque, a sticky film that builds up on your teeth and contains bacteria. If plaque isn't removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which irritates the gums, causing them to swell and become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to the gums pulling away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive. If left untreated, gum disease can progress and damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
What to Do if Your Gums Bleed?
If you notice your gums bleeding, don't ignore it. It's important to see a dentist or periodontist as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. During your appointment, your dentist will likely examine your mouth, take X-rays, and measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.
Based on their findings, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
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Professional cleaning: This involves removing plaque and tartar above and below the gum line using specialized tools.
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Scaling and root planing: In cases of more advanced gum disease, a deeper cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing may be necessary. This procedure removes tartar and plaque from below the gum line and smooths out the tooth roots to prevent further bacterial buildup.
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Antibiotics: In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control the bacteria associated with gum disease.
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Surgery: If gum disease has progressed significantly, surgery may be necessary to restore lost bone and tissues or to repair damaged gum tissue.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to avoid gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash. You should also schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to help catch any signs of gum disease early on.
Consider Restoration Dentistry for Missing Teeth due to Gum Disease
If you have already lost teeth due to gum disease, there are several restoration dentistry options available to restore your smile and oral function. Dental implants are a popular choice, as they look and function like natural teeth. Other options include bridges and partial dentures.
The Bottom Line: Don't Ignore Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are a warning sign that your oral health needs attention. By seeking prompt treatment and practicing good oral hygiene, you can prevent gum disease from progressing and keep your mouth healthy for years to come.
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Dental Implants | Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center AZ, our team offers high-quality and affordable treatment options for patients with oral health problems. Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, 4455 E. Camelback Rd #E-100, Phoenix, AZ 85018 ^ (480) 504-0506 ^ azimplantsolutions.com ^ 3/23/2025 ^ Tags: Periodontist Phoenix AZ ^
Have you ever noticed your gums bleeding after brushing or flossing? While occasional bleeding may not seem like a big deal, it's actually an important sign that your oral health might be at risk. Bleeding gums are one of the first signs of gum disease, a common and treatable infection of the gum tissues.