If your gums bleed when you brush and floss, it may be a sign that you need dental care. While some people think bleeding gums are normal, they’re often an early warning sign of gum problems. If your gums bleed regularly, don’t ignore the issue. At Integrated Dental, we provide gentle, effective treatment for bleeding gums in Sarasota, FL. We help patients improve their gum health and prevent more serious dental concerns.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
You need dental care if you have red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Many patients can develop gum problems from an infection, but other dental problems or even your lifestyle can contribute. You can develop bleeding gums for many reasons:
- Gum Disease: One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth after you eat or drink. If plaque isn’t removed through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. This buildup can irritate your gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding.
- Bad Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene is often behind gingivitis. If you skip brushing or flossing, or if you don’t clean your teeth thoroughly, bacteria can grow in your mouth and lead to gum inflammation. Even if you brush every day, not flossing can allow bacteria to stay hidden between your teeth, where they can cause gum problems.
- Brushing Too Hard: Bleeding gums can also be caused by brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles. You should brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing too hard can damage your gums and make them more likely to bleed.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes can also affect gum health. Pregnant women, for example, may notice their gums bleed more easily due to changes in hormone levels. This condition is sometimes called “pregnancy gingivitis” and usually goes away after pregnancy, but it should still be monitored and treated if needed.
- Medications: Certain medications can also increase your risk of bleeding gums. Blood thinners, for example, can make it easier for your gums to bleed. Other medications may cause dry mouth. Without enough saliva to wash bacteria away, you can have a higher chance of gum problems.
- Removable Restorations: If you wear dentures or dental appliances that don’t fit well, they can rub against your gums and cause bleeding. Smoking and tobacco use can also weaken your gums and increase your risk for gum disease and bleeding.
Bleeding Gums Treatment at Integrated Dental
At Integrated Dental, we begin with a full evaluation to find the cause of your bleeding gums. One of our doctors will examine your gums, teeth, and mouth to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or gum disease. They may also ask questions about your brushing and flossing habits, diet, and health history. They may recommend one or more treatments based on the cause of your bleeding.
Deep Cleaning
If gingivitis is the cause of your bleeding gums, we may recommend a professional dental cleaning. A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that you can’t remove at home. Cleaning the gums helps them heal and reduces inflammation.
If your gum disease has progressed to a more serious stage, known as periodontitis, we may recommend scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning procedure removes bacteria from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can reattach to the teeth. Periodontal disease treatment can prevent further bone loss and gum loss as a result of gum disease.
Better Oral Hygiene
In addition to cleaning your teeth and gums, we will help you improve your oral hygiene habits at home. Our dental hygienists will show you how to brush and floss correctly to avoid plaque buildup. We may also suggest using an antibacterial mouthwash or a special toothpaste to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Dry Mouth Treatment
For patients with dry mouth or who take medications that affect gum health, we can suggest saliva substitutes, hydration tips, and ways to keep your mouth moist. Smoking can also increase your risk of dry mouth. If you smoke, we will encourage you to quit and provide support or referrals to help you stop. Tobacco use makes gum disease worse and slows healing.
New Restorations
If your bleeding gums are caused by a poorly fitting dental appliance, we may adjust or replace it to make sure it no longer irritates your gums. Comfort and fit are important for both your dental health and your overall well-being. Our doctors may also recommend an implant-supported restoration. Dentures and bridges supported by implants don’t lay on the gums. Instead, implants secure your new teeth at the root.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums
The best way to prevent bleeding gums is to practice good oral hygiene every day. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. We recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to brush along the gum line and gently clean your tongue. Floss before you brush at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gums.
Also visit Integrated Dental twice a year for checkups and professional cleanings. Even if your teeth feel fine, these visits help catch early signs of gum problems before they become more serious. Most people should visit the dentist every six months, but our experienced dentists may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease or other dental concerns.
Diet can also play a big role in your gum health. Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which feed the bacteria that cause plaque. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can also help wash away bacteria and keep your mouth healthy.
Avoid smoking and tobacco use, which can harm your gums and make it harder for them to heal. If you have diabetes or other health conditions that affect your mouth, work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar under control.
Taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. Healthy gums support your teeth and protect you from infection. When your gums are pink, firm, and don’t bleed, it’s a good sign that your mouth is in good shape.
Schedule a Consultation
Integrated Dental is here to keep your gums healthy. Call for bleeding gums treatment in Sarasota, FL at 941-398-0609 You can also request an appointment with us online.