Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth? You may be developing gingivitis, which is the first stage of periodontitis, or gum disease. Periodontitis is a fairly common disease, affecting 3 million Americans each year. However, in the late stages, it can lead to tooth loss and gum recession. Learn ways to treat bleeding gums in Charlotte, NC and seek treatment at Dentistry of The Queen City.
You should never ignore bleeding gums. They can increase your risk of multiple conditions such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Heart attacks
Treating Bleeding Gums and Gum Disease
There are surgical and non-surgical periodontal disease treatments to help lessen the symptoms of periodontitis. Non-surgical treatment can include antibiotics, scaling, and root planing. Topical or oral antibiotics can help eliminate bacteria that is causing infection.
Scaling using a laser or ultrasonic device also removes bacteria and tartar from the mouth. Root planing helps to remove bacteria causing inflammation by smoothing tooth roots.
Surgical treatments for periodontitis include pocket reduction or flap surgery, bone grafting, and tissue regeneration. Flap surgery exposes roots for more effective scaling and planing by lifting back gum tissue. Bone grafting is needed when gums recede as a result of gum disease. This procedure holds the affected tooth in place and can promote regrowth.
Signs of Gum Disease
Knowing the signs of gum disease can save your oral health. While bleeding gums is the most obvious sign, there are many others.
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Mouth sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dentures
If you have noticed any of these symptoms, call Dentistry of the Queen City in Charlotte, NC today to schedule a dental exam and gum evaluation! Dr. Greg Reece will work with you to find an effective treatment option for you and your specific dental concerns.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
There are several things you can do to prevent gum disease. These habits will ensure that your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible. The most important thing you must do practice good oral hygiene at home. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. You should be using fluoride based toothpaste with a soft bristled tooth brush. Mouthwash is a great addition to your routine that will help kill the bad bacteria in your mouth.
Additionally, you must visit a dentist regularly. Most dentists agree that you should schedule a dentist appointment every six months. At these visits, we look for signs of gum disease and suggest immediate treatment. If left untreated, it will progress and get worse eventually leading to receding gums and tooth loss. We will also clean your teeth. Plaque and tartar can hide in many places in your mouth. Only a trained dental professional can remove it with special tools.
Schedule A Periodontal Exam Today
Prevent gum disease at the source. Call Dentistry of the Queen City at 704-486-8911 for a consultation with Dr. Reece. He will guide you through the treatment process, whether you have gingivitis or periodontitis.