Do your gums bleed?

Do your gums bleed when you brush?

If your gums bleed when you brush, it may be a sign that you have gum disease or gingivitis.

Gingivitis is an inflammation or infection in your gum tissue. It can cause your gums to become swollen and bleed to the touch.

What causes gums to bleed?

If you do not floss and brush your teeth with the proper technique, plaque & food can become trapped at or below the gum line. Bacteria that collects in the plaque and calculus causes the gums to become infected. The infection and inflammation that results can attack your body which will affect your gums and the bone in your jaw.

What happens if I don’t treat my bleeding gums?

The bacteria that causes gum disease, if left untreated can cause:

abscess
oral pain
bad breath
bone loss
shifting teeth
tooth loss

How are bleeding gums treated?

We treat bleeding gums at Berekeley Dental Care. We would begin with an oral examination and dental x-rays to be able to identify the progress and severity of the gingivitis. We will clean and polish your teeth to remove the plaque and tartar (calculus). Dr Ghoneim may also suggest irrigation with chlorhexidine below the gum tissue which is effective in reducing inflammation and in controlling plaque. He also may recommend an antibiotic treatment as well as an at home prescription rinse.

Can I prevent bleeding gums?

Yes, Dr Ghomeim may recommend having your teeth cleaned 3 – 4 times a year if you have had gingivitis.

You should brush and floss at least twice a day and use anti-microbial mouth rinses as directed by Dr Ghoneim and his hygienist.

Healthy gums are a phone call away. Call Berkeley Dental Care at 708-449-8683 for your dental examination and cleaning.