Bleeding gums is often an early sign of gum disease, evidence that the gum tissue has become infected and irritated by harmful bacteria. Left untreated, gum disease will continue to advance and can cause permanent damage to the teeth and gums. Gum disease affects 75% of the adult population and remains the leading cause of tooth loss.
Arlington Heights dentist Dr. Brent Engelberg provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for gum disease to restore your oral health. Maintaining healthy gums is an important part of preventive dental care at Arlington Heights Smiles and our experienced dentists and staff monitor the gum health of their patients as part of routine dental exams.
Signs of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease has two stages, but most patients are not aware of its presence until the second stage when complex dental health concerns begin to surface. Understanding the common signs of gum disease can play an important role in early detection and effective treatment, reducing the need for extensive dentistry to repair damaged teeth and gums.
- Bleeding gums
- Red, swollen gums
- Changes in the fit of dental appliances
- Persistent bad breath
- Sensitive gums
- Shifting teeth
Treatment For Bleeding Gums in Arlington Heights
Routine dental care provides the opportunity to spot gum disease in the early stages and provide conservative, effective treatment. Treatment options can include:
- Dental cleanings: for very mild gingivitis, a thorough dental cleaning may be effective. In some cases, Dr. Engelberg may recommend an additional annual dental cleaning for patients with recurring gum disease.
- Scaling and root planing: this intensive cleaning will remove the plaque built up along the gum line and in pockets of the gums to allow the affected areas to heal.
- Gum surgery: in more advanced cases of gum disease, known as periodontitis, Dr. Engelberg may recommend soft tissue surgery to remove diseased tissue and restore dental health. If necessary, they will coordinate care with a local periodontist for the best result.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
What can be the cause of bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums can be caused by a variety of health issues including plaque buildup, heart disease, diabetes, brushing too hard, and gingivitis. It can also signify a vitamin deficiency. This is also a sign of a vitamin C and vitamin K deficiency. Another cause of bleeding gums in women may be pregnancy, or hormonal changes.
Can a nutrient deficiency be the cause of bleeding gums?
A vitamin deficiency can be the cause of your issue with bleeding or sensitive gums. Having low levels of vitamin C is the main vitamin that contributes to this. Vitamin K deficiency also contributes to gums bleeding. Taking external supplemental vitamins, or eating foods high in vitamins may help if you are experiencing bleeding gums.
What does it mean if my gums are bleeding often?
Bleeding gums are often a direct result of built up plaque in the gums. Plaque has tons of germs and unhealthy bacteria that attack the healthy soft tissue that is in the gums. When gums have plaque in them, they are being attacked and become red and inflamed which may cause them to bleed. Bleeding is common when brushing and flossing, but if it is excessive ask your dentist for a gum evaluation.
Is it okay for my gums to bleed while flossing?
No, if your gums bleed while you are flossing then you are not properly caring for your oral health. Bleeding gums while flossing or brushing is caused by built up plaque around the gums and poor care for your teeth and gums. If your gums are bleeding it means that they are irritated and attempting to defend themselves from outside germs.