If your gums bleed while you’re brushing your teeth, you should consider this as an early warning sign of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a bacterial infection that can cause tooth damage and loss if not appropriately treated.

Dr. Wingate offers treatment for the signs and symptoms of gum disease in our Garner dentist office to restore your oral health.

Treatment Options

Bleeding gums signify that there is plaque building up around your gum line. This often leads to gingivitis or gum inflammation. If gingivitis is left untreated, it quickly develops into periodontitis or the inflammation of your tooth’s supporting bones.

Dr. Wingate screens all of our patients at Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry for gum disease during routine dental cleanings. However, if you notice your gums are bleeding, you should schedule a consultation with our team on how to improve your overall gum health.

Our main goal during treatment is to remove all of the build-up that is irritating your gums. After that, we will also help you develop a personalized oral hygiene plan to avoid similar issues in the future as well as the severe consequences of untreated gum disease.

Understanding Gum Disease

There is a range of reasons why an individual might be more prone to gum disease than others. Certain medical conditions, including diabetes, can increase your risk.

Additionally, if you use tobacco products, take certain medications, or have a genetic history of gum disease, you are more likely to develop gum disease. If you have a predisposition to gum disease, it’s important to be proactive with your dental care and stay on top of early symptoms like gum bleeding.

Gum disease is progressive and has two distinct phases. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is often easily resolved with conservative treatment options. If you notice that your gums bleed or appear red and swollen, it is important to schedule a visit to our Garner dentist office.

Left untreated, more complex problems can develop that can lead to noticeable changes in the health and beauty of your smile. Periodontitis can lead to pockets around the tooth roots as gums recede, persistent bad breath and shifting teeth.

Bleeding Gums FAQs

When should I be concerned about bleeding gums?

Bleeding gums may occur due to a variety of reasons, making it difficult to differentiate between them being a health concern or a normal reaction. The best way to gage if you should be concerned about bleeding gums is if it occurs continuously. This may be a sign of periodontal disease, which can be treated and diminished if caught early.

Can stress cause gum bleeding?

Stress may cause gums to bleed. Stress has been shown to weaken patients’ immune systems and may cause inflammation. Inflamed gums are more likely to bleed upon contact. Stress does not directly cause a patient’s gums to bleed, however it puts a patient at a higher risk to experience bleeding gums.

Can salt water rinse heal gum infection?

Rinsing with saltwater can heal gum infection. Salt draws out inflammation and infection from gums. Warm water soothes gums and helps heal them. Rinsing with saltwater is a good way to reduce gum inflammation and help heal infection.

Schedule A Dental Exam Today

If you have concerns about the health of your gums we welcome you to schedule a visit with us in Garner. We can conduct a periodontal exam to determine if you have gum disease and recommend appropriate solutions. Our office welcomes new patients and Dr. Wingate offers personalized dentistry for your needs.