Gum disease affects about 3 million Americans every year. While many mild cases of gum disease can be treated with early intervention, moderate to severe cases of gum disease could lead to tooth loss and gum recession. Bleeding gums is one of the earliest signs of gum disease. Bleeding gums treatment in Towson, MD, varies depending on the patient and the severity of their gum disease. Your dentist can examine your gums and teeth to determine which treatment is right for your oral health.
What Causes Bleeding Gums
When plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth, it can cause decay in your enamel. But when they build up along the gum line, it can lead to infection. As bacteria sit on your gums, it infects the soft tissue and can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and pain or sensitivity. These are all early signs of developing gum disease. Early intervention in these beginning stages can help prevent the spread of gum disease in your mouth.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
If your gums are bleeding when you brush or floss, then gum disease has already started. Proper oral hygiene care can help prevent gum disease from beginning and could help reduce the expansion of gum disease in your mouth. To help prevent gum disease, make sure you:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash or other additional dental treatment per your dentist’s instructions
- Visit your dentist at least every six months for a cleaning and exam
- Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice tooth pain or sensitivity
Keeping your teeth and gums clean can greatly reduce your risk of developing bleeding gums and gum disease. Seeing your dentist for routine exams can also help them catch early signs of gum disease and provide treatment as needed.
Options for Bleeding Gums Treatment in Towson, MD
Treatment for bleeding gums will look different for each patient. Some patients with cases of mild gum disease may find relief through the application of topical or oral antibiotics. Patients with more extensive cases of gum disease may need scaling and root planing to help remove bacteria and reduce inflammation. In some cases, patients may need gum flap surgery to help remove plaque and bacteria from deeper in the gums. Bone grafting is also a potential treatment option for patients who suffer from receding gums.
Do You Have Bleeding Gums?
If your gums bleed when you brush, floss, or eat, it could be a sign of early gum disease. The sooner you get treated for bleeding gums, the less risk you have of developing further disease. At Dental Excellence, we believe prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. As soon as you notice early signs of gum disease, call our office right away at (410) 514-6553 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options for gum disease.