Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Brush My Teeth?

Bleeding gums when you brush or floss are not normal and should never be ignored. In most cases, they are early warning signs of periodontal disease. Left untreated, the chronic gum inflammation and infection can impact your oral and overall health. At Buckingham Family Dental, we emphasize the importance of the prevention, treatment, and management of periodontal disease to help our valued patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles. Contact our Garland practice to get started today!

What Are the Causes of Gum Bleeding?

The leading cause of gum bleeding is gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal (gum) disease. It usually develops when plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, leading to inflammation, irritation, and bleeding when you brush and floss.

In addition to bleeding, early signs of periodontal disease may include red, puffy gums, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Without prompt intervention, the condition can continue to progress and gradually break down the bone and structures supporting your teeth, eventually leading to loose teeth and tooth loss.

Additional risk factors for gingivitis and gum bleeding include the following:

• Poor oral hygiene practices
• Misaligned or crowded teeth
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Hormonal changes (such as pregnancy)
• The natural aging process
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Certain medications
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes

How Can Periodontal Disease Impact Your Health?

Aside from its impacts on your smile, the chronic inflammation and infection linked to periodontal disease have been shown to increase the risk of serious health concerns, such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, respiratory infections, pregnancy complications, and so much more. Keeping your gums healthy can enhance your overall health and well-being.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Treatment for gum disease begins with a deep dental cleaning known as scaling and root planing. The non-surgical procedure involves gently removing plaque and tartar built up on your teeth and along your gumline, followed by cleaning and smoothing out your tooth root surfaces to help the gum tissues heal and reattach. We may also prescribe antibiotics and mouth rinses to help clear the infection.

After treatment, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months, along with excellent at-home oral hygiene practices to keep your gum infection and inflammation in check.

How Can You Lower Your Risk of Gum Bleeding?

Here is a look at some of the ways to lower your risk of periodontal disease and gum bleeding:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to clean those hard-to-clean areas between your teeth.
• Avoid smoking and maintain a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins that support tissue repair.
• Drink plenty of water to enhance healthy saliva flow, helping naturally cleanse your teeth and gums.
• Visit Buckingham Family Dental for your twice-yearly dental exams and professional cleanings.
• Seek immediate care if you have any warning signs of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums.

Periodontal Therapy Near Me in Garland, TX

If your gums have been bleeding lately, contact Buckingham Family Dental to schedule a consultation. Our patient-centered team always recommends the most conservative solutions to keep your gums healthy. From preventive care to periodontal therapy and ongoing maintenance, we are here to support your smile every step of the way. We invite you to call 469-649-1017 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!