How to Stop Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can be a sign of poor oral health, and it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Thankfully if you catch them early enough, bleeding gums are reversible. At Rosas Family Dentistry in Clear Lake, TX, Dr. Rosas and Dr. Budman are here to help you understand why your gums are bleeding and what you can do to stop it.

Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

There are several reasons why your gums may be bleeding. The most common cause is gingivitis. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease, which is an infection of the gums that can cause inflammation, swelling, and bleeding.

Gingivitis almost always causes bleeding gums when you brush or floss. While gingivitis is reversible with good home care, more advanced periodontal (gum) disease is not; professional treatment will be required to stop the infection and prevent it from spreading.

Other causes of bleeding gums can sometimes include brushing too hard, hormonal changes, and certain medications.

Does Flossing Make My Gums Bleed?

Someone who doesn’t floss very often will usually experience bleeding gums whenever they floss. Or if their brushing isn’t as thorough as it should be, their gums may bleed when they brush their teeth.

Flossing can trigger bleeding gums if you have gum disease or gingivitis. However, this should not deter you from flossing. In fact, flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral health, as it helps remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and gums. If you are experiencing bleeding while flossing, it’s likely that you need to floss more often and brush more thoroughly along your gumlines.

With a dedicated oral hygiene routine, bleeding caused by gingivitis will usually improve within two weeks if you are flossing every day. If the bleeding lasts longer than that, it’s important to see a dentist for a proper evaluation and treatment.

How Smoking Affects Gum Health

People who smoke, vape, or use tobacco products usually don’t see as much bleeding, even if they have active gum disease. In fact, smoking can mask common symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis, predisposing you to a greater chance of tooth loss.

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your gum health. Not only does it increase your risk of gum disease, but it also makes it more difficult for your gums to heal after treatment. If you smoke, it’s important to quit as soon as possible.

Do I Have Gum Disease or Gingivitis?

Gum disease and gingivitis are similar conditions, but there are some key differences. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. It can be treated with proper brushing and flossing, along with regular dental cleanings. Gum disease, on the other hand, is a more advanced form of gingivitis that can cause damage to the gum tissue and bone structure that supports your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Know When to Schedule a Periodontal Exam

If you are experiencing bleeding gums on a regular basis, it’s important to see our Clear Lake dentists as soon as possible. The team at Rosas Family Dentistry can perform a periodontal exam to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend the best course of action to stop the infection. During the exam, our hygienists or dentists will check the health of your gums, the stability of your teeth, and the depth of the gum pockets around the roots of your teeth. We’ll also use X-rays to assess your bone levels and tartar buildup.

The Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral health. During a cleaning, our hygienists will remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Our dentists will also check for any signs of gum disease or other oral health problems and make recommendations for how to improve your oral health.

Schedule Your Next Checkup

At Rosas Family Dentistry, we believe in the importance of preventive care. That’s why we offer regular dental checkups to help you maintain good oral health. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, it’s important to schedule a checkup as soon as possible. Our dentists will be able to diagnose the problem, recommend treatment, and help you stop the bleeding.

With a great preventative care routine, regular cleanings, and daily brushing and flossing, you can say goodbye to bleeding gums for good. Call our Clear Lake dentists today to reserve your next cleaning appointment.