Bleeding gums can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue like periodontal disease. Irritated, red, swollen, and bleeding gums are often present in patients who have gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Dr. Robert Cain is a periodontist in Knoxville, TN, who treats patients with early signs of gum disease like bleeding gums in Maryville, TN. He is currently welcoming new patients.
The Importance of Gum Health
The gums are part of the soft tissue lining in the mouth and play an important role in your oral health. They protect the tooth roots and underlying bone structure by forming a tight seal at the base of your teeth, which creates a barrier against bacteria. They also help hold your teeth in place.
Regular teeth cleanings will remove plaque in hard-to-reach places, preventing gum disease from developing. These bi-annual visits will also catch it in the early stages when treatment is more conservative. If left untreated, you risk the chance of the infection reaching your bloodstream and can lead to major health issues.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums in Knoxville, TN
Dr. Cain offers several treatments for bleeding gums at his Maryville, TN area periodontist office. Depending on how severe your condition is, he may recommend the following bleeding gums treatments:
- Periodontal Scaling
- Root Planing
- Tissue Regeneration
- Gingivectomy
- Medication
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
If you notice that your gums are bleeding when you brush, this is a clear sign that a problem exists.
Bleeding gums are often caused by plaque buildup that isn’t cleaned away properly. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If it’s not removed, it can make your gums pull away from your teeth and become irritated. The bacteria in plaque can also cause your gums to get inflamed and sore, which is an early sign of gum disease called gingivitis.
When your gums are infected, brushing or flossing can make them bleed. If the plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which makes the gum disease worse. Over time, this can lead to tooth decay, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
Besides plaque, hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more sensitive and likely to bleed. Pregnant women should keep brushing and flossing but be extra gentle with their gums.
Dentures that don’t fit well can also rub against your gums and cause bleeding or infection. If your dentures don’t fit properly, see your dentist to have them adjusted.
To keep your gums healthy and avoid bleeding, brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Floss before you brush to remove plaque between your teeth.
Seeing your dentist in Knoxville regularly is key to preventing gum disease. Dr. Cain can monitor your gum health, clean away plaque and tartar, and catch any problems early before they get worse.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Learn more about bleeding gums in Maryville, TN with answers to these common questions:
When should I be concerned about bleeding gums?
You should start to worry about bleeding gums if it keeps happening even when you brush and floss regularly. Also, if your gums are swollen, painful, or you have bad breath along with the bleeding, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Constant bleeding might mean you have gum disease, like gingivitis or periodontitis, which needs to be treated by a dentist.
If your gums bleed often or the bleeding gets worse, don’t wait—see your dentist as soon as possible. They can figure out what’s causing the problem and help you get your gums healthy again.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed when flossing?
It’s not unusual for your gums to bleed a little when you floss, especially if you’re just starting to floss or flossing too hard. However, if your gums bleed every time you floss, it could be a sign of gum inflammation or early gum disease, called gingivitis.
Try flossing gently every day to help your gums stay healthy and stop the bleeding. Also, make sure to visit our dentist for regular cleanings. With good care, your gums should get healthier, and the bleeding should go away.
Are electric toothbrushes better for preventing bleeding gums?
Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at preventing bleeding gums. They remove plaque more efficiently and ensure even pressure, reducing the risk of gum irritation. Many models also have pressure sensors to prevent overbrushing, which can damage gums.
However, the most essential thing is to brush and floss regularly, no matter what type of toothbrush you use. If you’re not sure which toothbrush is best for you, ask our dentist for advice.
Can bleeding gums lead to tooth loss?
Yes, untreated bleeding gums can progress to advanced gum disease (periodontitis), which damages the supporting structures of teeth. Over time, this can cause gum recession, bone loss, and loose teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss. Early treatment is key to preventing these complications.
Do bleeding gums mean I need a deep cleaning?
Bleeding gums may indicate gum inflammation, but they don’t always mean you need a deep cleaning. Mild cases, like gingivitis, can usually be resolved with improved oral hygiene and regular cleaning. However, if bleeding is accompanied by gum recession or pockets, we may recommend a deep cleaning. This will remove bacteria beneath the gum line and prevent further progression. A dental evaluation is necessary to determine the right treatment.
Why do my gums bleed after flossing?
Bleeding gums after flossing often occur because of gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. This can happen if you’re not flossing regularly. Harmful bacteria can build up between your teeth and irritate the gums.
Bleeding typically reduces as your gums become healthier with consistent, gentle flossing. If the bleeding persists, it may be a sign of gum inflammation. Contact Dr. Cain if your gums do not stop bleeding, even if you brush and floss daily.
Reverse Bleeding Gums
Do your gums keep bleeding when you brush and floss? Treat your bleeding gums in Maryville, TN at East Tennessee Periodontics. Call Dr. Cain today at (865) 276-7173 or request an appointment online.
