If you’ve noticed that your gums bleed whenever you brush or floss your teeth, you could be experiencing the early symptoms of gum disease. Many people frequently deal with bleeding gums but don’t realize that this is an issue they should report to their dentists during their regular exams.
Bleeding gums, more formally known as gingivitis, quickly lead to periodontitis or gum disease. Dr. Huckin’s Dallas dentist office is equipped to ensure that gingivitis does not progress to gum disease through proper and prompt treatment. Because gum disease is preventable and treatable, it is important to treat bleeding gums as a serious dental concern.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by extensive tartar build-up. Because our mouths are constantly filled with bacteria, it is crucial to stay on top of your dental healthcare. Plaque build-up hardens and turns into tartar if not properly removed. Tartar can only be removed through professional dental cleaning, and eventually develops into gum disease if left untreated. The following are common symptoms of gum disease:
- Loose, shifting teeth
- Sore, bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Gum recession
- Painful chewing problems
- Inflamed gums
The Stages of Gum Disease
There are four different stages of gum disease that you may experience. The first stage, gingivitis, is the only option that can be reversed. All other stages are more chronic and can be managed, but not reversed.
Gingivitis
This first stage is the earliest form. Plaque and bacteria buildup at the gum line irritates the gums and causes inflammation. One of the reasons gum disease is so common is that the early symptoms of gingivitis are painless and may not be noticeable. The main thing to watch out for is bleeding gums that occur frequently. Diligent brushing and flossing and/or an antibacterial rinse are used to treat this.
Early Periodontal Disease
Next, gingivitis evolves into full periodontal disease. The bacteria become more aggressive and start attacking your bone. Pockets start to form between the gum tissue and bone, filled with bacteria and food particles. Scaling and root planing is used to take care of this stage. These gum pockets will be cleaned out and the tooth roots smoothed down so that the gum tissue can reattach to the bone.
Moderate Periodontal Disease
As the disease progresses further, the bacteria start to attack your bloodstream as well as the bone. They’re able to probe deeper into your body. Scaling and root planing is used in this stage as well.
Severe Periodontal Disease
At this stage of gum disease, surgery is the only way to help manage it. The disease is causing inflammation throughout your body. Your gums are oozing pus, it’s painful to eat or talk, and your teeth may be loose or fall out. Severe bone loss will be occurring.
Treating Gum Disease in Dallas Texas
There are several options when it comes to treating gum disease. Our first goal is to catch it early, which is why we recommend that you schedule an appointment with us every 6 months. During these appointments, we remove any plaque or tartar from your gum line so that your symptoms do not develop into gum disease in the first place. For patients who develop gum disease, we offer periodontal therapy, which includes:
- Scaling and root planing
- Gum graft surgery
- Flap surgery
To avoid the progression of gingivitis to gum disease, we recommend patients brush their teeth at least twice a day. Additionally, flossing helps avoid significant plaque build-up in the hard-to-reach places of your smile. Patients who smoke are also more likely to develop gum disease.
There are medical conditions and certain medications that can increase your risk for gum disease. Discuss your health history, lifestyle habits, and factors that can impact your oral health when you visit with us. This enables our dental care team to provide treatment personalized to your unique needs.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Plaque forms on teeth when people don’t properly care for them causing the infection. Plaque buildup is commonly caused by lack of brushing and flossing on a regular basis.
What is a gum infection called?
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection of the gums that causes inflammation and bleeding gums if left untreated. Cracked teeth and even eventual total tooth loss can result from periodontitis.
How long do bleeding gums last?
If you take care of your bleeding gums at home, you should see an improvement in the problem within three to ten days. If you want your gums to heal, you need to floss at least once a day and brush at least twice a day. Oral hygiene is crucial to gum health.
How long does it take to treat gum disease?
After a few days of treatment, you should start to feel better, but it could take longer for all of your symptoms to go away. Gingivitis normally heals itself within 10-14 days. Treatment time may increase if your case of gingivitis is more severe.
Schedule an Appointment Online Today
Are you experiencing some or all of the symptoms of gum disease? Call us or schedule an appointment today. Dr. Huckin is happy to address any and all of your dental concerns and provide the appropriate treatment if necessary.