Healthy mouths don’t bleed — but many people see blood in the sink after they brush or floss. If you, too, experience bleeding gums, you should know that is one of the most common signs of gum disease. Keep reading to learn more about how we can help with periodontal therapy in Indianapolis.
Why Do Gums Bleed?
The primary reason for bleeding gums is gum disease, which occurs when the teeth are not brushed and flossed properly. Bacteria from plaque and food particles builds up in pockets around the teeth, emitting a foul odor and gradually eating away at the periodontal tissue. The body’s response to this infection is inflammation — and the gums will become red, swollen, and tender as a result. Bleeding will then occur when the gum tissue is aggravated, like from brushing and flossing (which usually does not occur in patients who have healthy gums). The gums may start to bleed from the very beginning stages of gum disease. That means seeing your dentist as soon as you notice this side effect can help to ensure that the gum disease is reversed, so you avoid the harmful long-term effects of this chronic condition.
However, gums may bleed briefly for reasons other than gum disease. Some of these include:
- Getting a new toothbrush or using one with hard bristles (it’s best to stick to soft bristled brushes)
- Crooked teeth that scrape or injure the gum tissue
- Taking certain medications that result in bleeding gums
- Habits like nail biting or pen chewing that damage the gums
Visit your dentist to find out the cause of your bleeding gums. If your bleeding gums are, in fact, the result of gum disease, periodontal therapy helps by treating the infection at the source.
Periodontal Therapy for Bleeding Gums
Through scaling and root planing, the most common treatment for gum disease, your Indianapolis dentist or hygienist can remove infected tissue and prevent the reoccurrence of bacteria using special tools and the help of an antibiotic, as needed. This method of gum disease treatment is usually completed over the course of several visits to the dentist.
After periodontal therapy is complete, continue to visit your dentist as recommended for follow-up visits to prevent the recurrence of gum disease and bleeding gums. Keep these tips in mind as well to help keep your gums healthy for the long haul.
- Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes, twice a day (or after each meal)
- Floss between teeth daily
- Eat a balanced, nutritious, low-sugar diet
- Avoid cigarettes or tobacco
- Let your dentist know if you experience any of the warning signs of gum disease
About Indy Dental Group
Indy Dental Group is a local leader in general and family dentistry. To learn more about gum disease treatment or to schedule an appointment for the same, please do not hesitate to get in touch with your dentist in Indianapolis at (317) 867-5400.