Bleeding Gums – A Sign of Gum Disease

by | Jan 15, 2015

Are your gums red, puffy and sore? Do they bleed when you brush and floss your teeth? Bleeding gums are the most common sign of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.
Over 75% of American adults over the age of 35 have gum disease, according to WebMD – and that includes residents of Hendricks County. However, most people have gingivitis, a less severe form of gum disease. But up to 15% of people suffer from periodontitis, a much more serious form of periodontal disease.
Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of plaque at your gum line. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth properly, plaque can accumulate, leading to inflamed, bleeding gums. When gingivitis is caught and treated, your gums can be healed. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can get worse, leading to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is an infection of your gums, jawbone and the supportive tissues that connect your teeth and gums. This infection severely weakens your gums, bone and tissues. Your gums will be severely swollen and painful with increased bleeding. If periodontitis is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Therefore, Hendricks County residents need to visit Danville Family Dentistry at the first sign of bleeding gums to get treatment before your gum disease progresses.
Some treatment recommendations that Dr. Jon Erickson may make, include:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce plaque buildup.
  • Using a soft-bristle toothbrush to reduce abrasion on sensitive gums.
  • Using an electric toothbrush to clean your gum line more easily.
  • Flossing once a day to remove plaque between your teeth and at the gum line.
  • Scheduling dental cleaning appointments at Danville Family Dentistry twice a year for professional plaque removal.
  • Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to minimize plaque formation.
  • Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to soothe swollen gums.
  • Advising you to see your doctor if there may be another cause for your bleeding gums.

Bleeding gums and gum disease are treatable, so schedule your appointment at Danville Family Dentistry of Hendricks County today by calling 317-745-4400.