Have you ever noticed a little blood in the sink after brushing or flossing your teeth? If so, you’re not alone! While bleeding gums are a common issue, they shouldn’t be ignored. While occasional gum bleeding may not be a big deal, consistent bleeding can signify something more serious. Understanding the causes of bleeding gums, your treatment options, and tips to prevent them can help you feel more confident in your oral health and make an informed decision about when to seek professional care.
At Advanced Periodontics of New Jersey, we provide specialized care for patients experiencing bleeding gums and other periodontal concerns. Our board-certified periodontists offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment options designed to address the primary cause of your symptoms and restore your gum health. With years of experience treating complex periodontal conditions, we utilize the latest treatment methods and technology to deliver practical and comfortable patient care throughout River Edge and the surrounding communities.
What Causes Your Gums To Bleed?
There are several reasons why your gums might be bleeding, and some of them may surprise you! Here are the most common culprits for bleeding gums:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Brushing too hard
- Flossing inconsistently
- Gum disease
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Medications
- Hormonal imbalances
While some causes, like brushing too aggressively or not flossing consistently, are easily fixable, others, such as gum disease, often require professional attention. Identifying the primary cause of your bleeding gums is the first step toward finding the right solution and improving your gum health.
What Treatments Are Available for Bleeding Gums?
If you’re dealing with persistent gum bleeding, several treatment options are available based on the root cause of your symptoms. These treatments include the following:
- Improve your oral hygiene routine: If plaque buildup is the culprit for your bleeding gums, improving your brushing and flossing habits may help. Be sure to brush twice daily and floss at least once a day.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash: A good antiseptic mouthwash can help fight the bacteria and plaque in your mouth, which can, in turn, help control bleeding gums.
- Get professional cleanings: Regular dental assessments and cleanings help eliminate plaque and tartar that can’t be tackled with at-home brushing and flossing alone. Your periodontist can also look for early signs of gum disease and deliver treatment before it worsens and can’t be reversed.
- Address vitamin deficiencies: If you suspect a vitamin deficiency could be the cause of your bleeding gums, schedule an appointment with your general practitioner to discuss your symptoms and get treatment to balance your vitamin intake.
- Switch to a gentler toothbrush: If you’re using a hard-bristled toothbrush, try switching to a soft-bristled one. It will be gentler on your gums while still effectively cleaning your teeth.
- Manage any medical conditions or medications: If you’re on blood thinners or have an underlying health condition like diabetes, let your dentist know and discuss your symptoms with your primary care doctor.
If you have any questions about the options available to treat your bleeding gums, please contact us at Advanced Periodontics of N.J. to schedule an appointment.
How Can You Prevent Bleeding Gums at Home?
According to the CDC, bleeding gums are a common sign of gum disease, with nearly 42% of all adults having some form of periodontal disease. Because of this, prevention is the foundation for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your gums healthy at home and prevent them from bleeding in the first place:
- Brush and floss twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use
- Schedule regular dental cleanings
- Manage your stress
By following these prevention tips, you can keep your gums in optimal condition and stop bleeding before it starts. Next time you see a little blood in the sink, take it as a reminder to give your gums the TLC they deserve and schedule an appointment with your periodontist!
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums at Advanced Periodontics of N.J.
At Advanced Periodontics of N.J., we understand bleeding gums can be concerning and potentially indicate serious periodontal issues. Our board-certified periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating all gum conditions with the latest techniques and technology. Our dedicated approach to patient education and personalized treatment plans has helped countless patients throughout River Edge, New Jersey, and surrounding communities achieve optimal gum health and prevent future problems.
Don’t ignore the warning signs of bleeding gums–taking action early can save you from more complex treatments down the road. Our team is devoted to providing compassionate, comprehensive care in a comfortable environment. Whether you need a thorough assessment or treatment for gum disease or want to establish a prevention plan, we’re here to help. Call Advanced Periodontics of New Jersey today at (201) 940-7002 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation.