What causes bleeding gums, and what can be done for treatment?
Dr. Colby Eckland and his staff at Redmond Smiles help patients in and around the Redmond, Washington, area with their oral health and wellness needs. He educates patients on problems that can develop without a proper oral hygiene routine, such as bleeding gums. Let’s look at what causes bleeding or swollen gums and how to treat them and avoid them!
Why do gums bleed?
The most common cause of bleeding and swollen gums is gum disease, which some call periodontal disease. This is an oral infection of the tissues and bones that support teeth. When plaque builds up on teeth, it hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to inflammation. If left untreated, this condition progresses to later stages called periodontitis, which can cause permanent damage to the gums and bone.
Other factors that may contribute to bleeding gums include:
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications, such as blood thinners
- Ill-fitting dentures or dental appliances
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles
What should I do if bleeding and swollen gums develop between dental visits?
If you are experiencing persistent bleeding or swollen gums, we strongly advise you to schedule an appointment with our team for a thorough check-up and personalized treatment plan. Treatment might include deep cleaning, scaling, root planing, or even integrating antibiotics to treat and eliminate the infection. When Dr. Eckland and his team evaluate you, you can learn more about the severity of your condition and discuss the best possible solutions to address the problem and restore oral health and wellness.
What can I do to protect my smile from periodontal disease in the future?
- Keep up with regular brushing and flossing, but be gentle around the affected area.
- Rinse out your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Avoid cigarette smoking or using tobacco products, which can aggravate gum disease.
- Increase your intake of vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, leafy greens, and bell peppers to support gum health.
Who can I call if I am experiencing swelling or bleeding gums?
Conditions like periodontal disease are completely avoidable with proper care, but if the issue does develop, treatment performed in a timely manner is strongly advised. Dr. Colby Eckland and his staff at Redmond Smiles assist Redmond, Washington, area patients with a wide range of conditions that might impact the smile. Educating yourself on how to care for your teeth and gums allows you to be proactive in protecting the health and beauty of your smile. Call (425) 584-1192 today to request an appointment at 15965 NE 85th Street, Suite #201.
