Blood on your brush, floss, or sink is a tell-tale sign that you have gum disease. You may be in the early stages, known as gingivitis, or you may have already progressed to a gum infection called periodontitis. Either way, it’s time to call the dentist.
At Dental Town DC, in Washington, DC, our team are dedicated to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here’s what you need to know about achieving and maintaining periodontal health.
What is periodontal health?
The term “periodontal” comes from the Greek words “perio” — which means around — and “dontal” — which means teeth. So, periodontal health refers to the health of your gums and the bones that surround and support your teeth. Without strong bones and gums, your teeth lose their only anchor. And you lose your teeth.
Bleeding gums threaten your overall health, too
You may not realize it, but your oral health greatly impacts your immune system and overall health. If you suffer from periodontitis, you’re at increased risk for:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
Serious health conditions like these reduce your quality of life. Even worse, they shorten life expectancy.
How do dentists treat bleeding gums?
Gingivitis — the precursor to full-blown periodontal disease — starts when the gum tissue around the base of your teeth becomes inflamed. The dentist successfully treats gingivitis by performing a combination of treatments known as scaling and root planing.
During scaling, she removes plaque from the surfaces of your teeth and even from beneath your gums. She then performs root planing, which involves smoothing the roots of your teeth, so then can reattach to your gums and essentially get a fresh start.
If you ignore bleeding gums, gingivitis may progress to the more severe stage, periodontitis. Periodontitis is a serious infection in which deep pockets filled with bacteria develop between your teeth and gums. If left untreated, the soft tissue damage worsens, and your bone is ravaged. That’s why periodontitis leads to tooth loss.
Further treatments include:
- Special antibacterial mouthwashes
- Antiseptic chips inserted after root planing
- Bone and tissue grafts to replace damaged tissue and bone
- Flap surgery to lift, clean, then re-stitch gums
- Periodontal splinting to attach weak teeth together for support
- Guided tissue regeneration to regrow healthy gums
- Osseous surgery to reduce gum pockets
- Gum or soft tissue grafting to replace diseased gums
How do I prevent bleeding gums?
The most common factor involved in periodontal disease — and a controllable one — is poor oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and an ADA-approved toothpaste. Floss at least once daily, then visit us twice a year for a check-up and thorough, professional cleaning.
If you have bleeding gums, our dental team will provide you with the highest level of care. As always, no matter what procedure we recommend, we prepare you fully so you know what to expect, both during the procedure and during aftercare, too.
If you have bleeding gums, contact our office at Dental Town DC by calling our friendly staff or using our online scheduling tool today.