Why Are My Gums Bleeding? Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

Have your gums been bleeding lately? If so, this may be an early sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal or gum disease. If left untreated, the progressive condition can lead to complications, including gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Our team at High Street Dentistry emphasizes the importance of preventing, treating, and managing periodontal disease to help you maintain your healthy, beautiful, and confident smile. 

What Causes Gum Bleeding?

Poor oral hygiene practices can cause plaque and tartar to accumulate along the gum line, which can lead to inflammation, irritation, and bleeding when you brush and floss. Early signs of gum disease may include red, puffy, and bleeding gums, bad breath, and a bad taste in the mouth. Without timely intervention, the condition can continue to progress and damage the bone and structures supporting the teeth, eventually leading to loose teeth and tooth loss. 

Additional risk factors for gum disease and bleeding include crooked teeth, family history, vitamin deficiencies, smoking, certain medications, and medical conditions, including diabetes. It can also result from hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy. 

How Is Gum Disease Treated? 

Treatment for gum disease begins with scaling and root planing. The deep dental cleaning starts with scaling, a process similar to what you can expect at a prophylaxis or regular dental cleaning. It involves gently removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gum line. Root planing, on the other hand, involves gently cleaning and smoothing out the tooth root surfaces to help the gum tissues heal and reattach to the clean root surfaces and to discourage bacteria from accumulating once again. After treatment, we typically recommend periodontal maintenance visits every 3-4 months and meticulous oral hygiene practices to maintain your gum health. 

Deep dental cleanings have been shown to treat and even reverse gum disease in its earliest stages. If, however, the condition has progressed, ongoing care and maintenance can help minimize further damage. 

How Can You Lower the Risk of Gum Disease? 

Here is a look at some of the ways you can lower the risk of gum disease: 

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss regularly to gently remove any plaque or food debris trapped in those hard-to-clean places between your teeth.
• Visit High Street Dentistry for your regular dental exams and professional cleanings. 
• Avoid smoking and consume a healthy, balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to keep your gums healthy. 
• Manage conditions that can contribute to gum disease, such as diabetes. 

Gum Disease Treatment Near Me in Jefferson City, MO

If your gums have been bleeding lately, contact High Street Dentistry for immediate care. The sooner you seek treatment, the better the outcomes for your smile. From professional dental cleanings to scaling, root planing, and ongoing maintenance, we are dedicated to ensuring your gums stay as healthy as possible. Call (573) 636-7432 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!