Do your gums bleed whenever you brush or floss your teeth? You probably have gingivitis or gum inflammation. Gingivitis is marked by sore, swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Patients with gum inflammation are prone to developing gum disease. However, gum inflammation is treatable. Dr. Stefan Speck treats patients with bleeding gums in his Oxford, PA dental office. He helps prevent gum inflammation from progressing into gum disease. Below we will review symptoms associated with gum disease as well as how you can treat your bleeding gums and prevent worsening oral health problems.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontitis, or gum disease, is an oral health problem caused by a buildup of bacteria on and around the gums. Bacteria eat away the food particles that can be left on the teeth and gums. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease, though patients who use tobacco products or have diabetes may be more prone to developing periodontitis.
Eventually, patients with gingivitis will experience worsening symptoms, including:
- Gum recession
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Tooth loss
Contact Dr. Speck if you have gum irritation and inflammation. He will provide preventative treatments that help save the gum tissue and natural teeth.
How to Treat Bleeding Gums
Some of the best treatments for gingivitis include antibacterial rinses and scaling and root planing. Dr. Speck can provide these solutions to patients at their routine dental checkups. An antibacterial rinse removes harmful bacteria from between the teeth and gums. For scaling and root planing treatment, a dental hygienist uses a metal dental tool to remove plaque and tartar from the gums and the tooth roots. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms tartar when hardened. Scaling and root planing not only remove bacteria but also help save natural teeth.
Contact Our Dental Office Today
Are you noticing symptoms of gum inflammation and irritation? Call Oxford Family Dentistry at 610.981.1320 or request a dental consultation with Dr. Speck on our website today. Let Dr. Speck or a member of his team know if you have any further questions or concerns about gum disease or gum inflammation. They will be happy to assist you.