Why Do I Have Bleeding Gums?

Do your gums bleed every time you brush your teeth? You may be brushing your teeth too hard, or you may be developing gum disease. There are many causes of bleeding gums, and we have the solutions. Treat your bleeding gums in our Arlington Heights, IL office. We help patients find the best solutions to their dental problems and find the root cause of their oral health problems. Our dental team is dedicated to professional care for all patients.

bleeding gums in Arlington Heights, IL

Causes and Treatments: Bleeding Gums in Arlington Heights

There are multiple common causes of bleeding gums. Explore these causes and how you can care for your gums at home and in our office:

Aggressive Brushing

If you brush your teeth and gums too aggressively, you can damage your gums. Patients who continue to brush too hard can experience gum recession and bleeding gums. Always brush and floss gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Additionally, use non-abrasive toothpaste as some types of whitening toothpaste can damage the teeth and gums.

Gum Inflammation

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is often a precursor to gum disease. Inflamed, red, and irritated gums are common symptoms of gingivitis. In the early stages of gum disease, patients can reverse their symptoms. Brushing and flossing are the best ways to treat gum inflammation. Flossing before brushing can remove debris from between teeth.

We also recommend regular dental appointments. Our hygienists use sanitized metal dental tools at regular appointments to remove tartar and calculus from the mouth. We also provide antibacterial rinses that minimize bacteria in the mouth.

Gum Disease

Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, occurs when harmful bacteria build up on the gum tissue. As plaque hardens to form tartar, it can become more difficult for patients to remove bacteria from their smiles. Along with persistent bleeding gums, patients with gum disease also experience gum recession, bad breath, and even loose teeth.

We can offer scaling and root planing treatments for patients with gum disease. Scaling removes bacteria from the gums, while root planing smooths the tooth roots. We may also recommend laser therapy. Dental lasers can remove infected tissue. Patients in the later stages of gum disease may require oral surgery and gum grafting to restore healthy gum tissue.

Gum health can impact your overall health. Many patients who experience gum disease experience increased heart problems. Please visit the dentist on a regular basis to prevent further health complications. Contact Dr. Brent Engelberg and his team at (847) 230-9703. You can also schedule a dental appointment at AH Smiles on our website.