Despite what you may have heard in the past, bleeding gums are not normal. In most cases, this is the sign of a larger problem that should be addressed. Dr. Josh Heinsheimer is a local dentist that treats bleeding gums in Leland, NC.
Why Do Gums Bleed?
Gums can bleed for various reasons, and it is very important to identify the cause of this dental concern so your dentist or health professional can address it effectively. Common causes of gum bleeding include:
- Gingivitis: The beginning stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. This is typically caused from poor oral hygiene habits. When you fail to properly care for your teeth and gums, bacteria will attack the soft tissues causing inflammation of the gums. This makes your gums very sensitive and more prone to bleeding, especially while brushing or flossing.
- Wearing Ill-Fitting Dentures: Dentures that do not fit correctly will irritate the gums and cause the gums to bleed. Also, if you wear your dentures constantly and never give your gums a rest you are at a higher risk of bleeding gums.
- Brushing or Flossing Too Hard: If you brush or floss your teeth aggressively, this can easily irritate your gums. Additionally, if you use a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, it can lead to bleeding gums.
- Medications: Some types of medications, especially blood thinners or anticoagulants, make it harder for your blood to clot. This will simply increase the likelihood of bleeding gums.
- Health Problems: There are certain health issues that make your gums more likely to bleed. Some systemic conditions like liver disease, leukemia, blood clotting disorders, anemia, or vitamin deficiencies can cause gum bleeding.
- Pregnancy: Most pregnant women will experience bleeding gums at some point during their pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy that make the gums more susceptible to bleeding. It is very important to practice good oral hygiene during pregnancy.
- Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, making them more prone to bleeding.
What Should I Do If My Gums Are Bleeding?
If your gums are bleeding, we recommend schedule an appointment with Dr. Josh Heinsheimer to determine the root cause. He will be able to recommend the appropriate treatment for you. Also, please continue practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. This will help prevent dental problems from developing that can cause your gums to bleed further.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums in Leland, NC
The treatment you need for your gums depends on identifying the root cause. Most causes of bleeding gums can be addressed with your health care provider. However, if you have ill-fitting dentures or gingivitis, we can help you!
Scaling and Root Planing: This treatment method is an intensive dental cleaning that removes bacteria from the gums. Scaling and root planing requires special tools that your dentist will use to scrape away plaque and tartar build up. The tools are necessary to reach tartar that is above and below the gum line. Removing this tartar from deep in the gum pockets will remove the bacteria that cause the gums to bleed. Once this is done, he will smooth out the teeth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.
Fix or Replace Dentures: If your dentures are the cause of your bleeding gums, you will need to bring them to Dr. Heinsheimer. They simply may not fit correctly anymore. This is normal after years of wearing them. Your dentist will adjust them, fix them, or replace them altogether for a better fitting set of dentures.
If you are experiencing bleeding gums in Leland, NC, book an appointment with Dr. Heinsheimer today. You can reach our office at 910-519-1624 or you can request a visit online.