Most of the time, noticing bleeding gums while brushing or flossing shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. This may simply be the result of brushing too hard or flossing enthusiasm. But, if the bleeding happens frequently, you should make an appointment to come in and see us. It may be a sign of gum disease, a serious oral health complication that could lead to tooth loss.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over has periodontal disease (aka gum disease). In the early stage, bacteria-laden plaque had been left to build up on the area of the teeth where they meet the gumline. Unaddressed, the plaque becomes the early stages of gum disease called gingivitis. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Bacteria-laden plaque produces toxins that irritate the gums and can cause puffiness, bleeding, soreness, inflammation, and red gums. According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
Fighting plaque is the best way to curtail gingivitis and gum disease. Time tested advice from your dentist is to brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride, floss at least once a day, use a mouthwash with anti-gingivitis ingredients, and make regular trips (every six months) to your dentist for professional cleanings and monitoring. These precautions will keep gum disease at bay and allow us to treat you before it becomes anything serious.
If you would like to speak to our dentist about bleeding gums, call Dr. Bogdan Bodroug and our helpful team at Quality Dental Care. Phone: 360-448-7018. Make an appointment or come by our office in Vancouver, Washington.