If you suffer from frequent bleeding gums or notice bleeding when you brush and floss, call Beautiful Smiles. Dr. Benjamin Stevens treats patients with bleeding gums in his Greenwood, IN office. Bleeding gums are caused by gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is gum inflammation, while periodontitis is gum disease that develops as a result of this inflammation.
Patients with bleeding gums often have to deal with further gum health and oral health issues over time. Patients who have gum inflammation or disease are more prone to developing heart health problems. Other common signs of gingivitis include red, swollen, and sore gums. Eventually, the gums may recede and form deep pockets. Severe cases of gum disease often result in tooth loss. Treating bleeding gums immediately can prevent the development of periodontitis.
How to Treat Bleeding Gums
Scaling and root planing are treatments used in tandem to reverse gingivitis and prevent gum disease. For scaling treatment, a dental hygienist uses a metal dental tool to scrape off plaque from around the gums. Root planing smooths down the tooth roots by removing bacteria buildup. Both of these treatments fight bacteria and keep the tooth roots attached to the teeth. You may feel slight sensitivity during these treatments, but Tylenol or Ibuprofen is effective in minimizing your pain.
The best way to prevent bleeding gums is to maintain your oral hygiene and schedule routine dental visits. At routine visits, we offer dental cleanings that remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, from the teeth and gums. We may also recommend antibacterial rinses to keep bacteria at bay as well as specific dental products that combat gingivitis. Remember to consistently brush and floss twice a day to maintain your smile.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
Call Dr. Stevens for comfortable gum treatment today. If you are a new patient, you can call Beautiful Smiles for an appointment at (317) 886-4512. Current patients can contact Dr. Stevens at (317) 888-4044. Alternatively, you can request a dental consultation with Dr. Stevens on our website. Please let Dr. Stevens know if you have further questions or concerns about gum treatments. He will be glad to help you get the answers you need.