Should I Worry When My Gums Bleed?

Should I Worry When My Gums Bleed?

Sometimes a bit of red in your rinse water after brushing can be normal. If your brushing routine is too vigorous, you may see a bit of blood and need to use a gentler approach. 

Regular bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. Ignoring your bleeding gums can allow the condition to progress to periodontitis, which is more serious and involves more invasive treatment. 

If you have noticed bleeding gums, Dr. Wayne Hofflich and the team at SmileBoutique have solutions. Our general and cosmetic dentistry team in Mount Vernon, New York, can help you restore your teeth and gums to health and improve your smile. 

Bleeding gums and your oral health

Bleeding gums are a sign of poor oral health. The gums and bones that surround and support your teeth must be in good health to support your teeth and a beautiful smile. When your oral health suffers from gum disease, your teeth’s anchors suffer and you could end up losing one or more of your natural teeth. 

Your oral health directly affects your overall health, including your immune system. When gum disease is allowed to set in, you raise your risk of developing:

These are serious chronic conditions that inhibit your quality of life and reduce your lifespan. 

Caring for bleeding gums

Dr. Hofflich and his team will examine your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease if you report having bleeding gums. If gingivitis is detected, our hygienist can help you improve your home oral care routine to do a better job of cleaning your teeth and gums. We will also provide you with a thorough professional cleaning to remove all traces of plaque and tartar. More advanced gum disease may require scaling and root planing to help your gums heal. 

Avoiding treatment from your dentist for bleeding gums caused by gingivitis can cause the condition to worsen and require more extensive treatment. Periodontitis is a significant infection marked by deep pockets filled with bacteria that develop between your teeth and gums. Periodontitis can damage your jawbone and lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss. 

Dr. Hofflich may also prescribe other treatments if gum disease is discovered, including:

Some of these treatments are used for advanced stages of gum disease. Avoid these extensive treatments by taking good care of your teeth and gums. 

How to keep your gums healthy

If your bleeding gums are a symptom of poor home oral care, speak with our hygienist about improving your daily brushing and flossing routine. Here are some helpful tips: 

If you notice your gums are bleeding, start by improving your home oral care routine. If the bleeding persists or gets worse, contact us at SmileBoutique to schedule an exam. Don’t let gum disease get the upper hand — get the care and guidance you need to maintain a healthy mouth and smile. 

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