Do you have gums that bleed during regular oral hygiene, such as tooth brushing or flossing?
Our Windsor Mill dentist office in Baltimore MD offers treatment for bleeding gums, and other common signs and symptoms of gum disease. Treating gum disease early and effectively is important for the maintenance of your long-term oral health.
Left untreated, gum disease can lead to more complex dental problems and even tooth loss. Although there is a range of reasons for bleeding gums, this is often an early warning sign of periodontal disease. Dr. Desbordes takes a thorough approach to your dental health by screening for gum disease during all routine dental visits.
Your dentist in Baltimore MD is dedicated to treating bleeding gums promptly and effectively. Gingivitis is a very common dental issue. Dr. Desbordes has years of experience treating gum disease issues correctly, and in a timely manner, so you can get back to your life.
Treating Bleeding Gums in Baltimore
Dr. Desbordes will thoroughly evaluate your gum health in order to provide personalized treatment recommendations. We can address your specific concerns and offer lasting results. Keeping your gums healthy is an important part of maintaining a stable smile AND healthy teeth. Your gums support your teeth and also serve as a barrier for keeping harmful bacteria in your mouth from entering your bloodstream.
If this protective barrier is compromised, you are more at risk for oral cancer, infections, and other diseases. Dr. Desbordes will determine the stage and severity of your gum disease with a thorough dental exam. He will discuss any lifestyle habits that can contribute to your gum health, and provide recommendations. We will help you better understand your dental health and how best to maintain it between visits.
We offer periodontal therapy that is tailored to your unique gum health issues. Our goal is to both restore your gums to excellent condition and help maintain your gum health for years to come. Depending on your unique issue, treatment options can include:
- Antibacterial rinses: This is for mild gingivitis or chronic gum disease, the use of an antibacterial rinse as part of your daily oral hygiene routine may be recommended.
- Scaling and root planing: When a disease has progressed and there are obvious signs of plaque or damage along the gum line, this intensive, but painless cleaning will remove built-up tartar and plaque to enable gum tissue to heal.
- Oral surgery or specialist care: For advanced cases of periodontitis where gum tissue is compromised and damaged, Dr. Desbordes may refer you to a local oral surgeon or specialist to restore gum health and address damaged gum tissue.
Schedule An Appointment
Do you have concerns about the health of your gums? Are you looking for a dentist in Baltimore MD? Contact our family dentist office in Windsor Mill. We welcome new patients! Your dental team will offer experienced, comprehensive dental care for your concerns and goals when it comes to your smile. Contact us at (410) 216-4023 or request an appointment online.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Bleeding gums are not normal and should be taken seriously when first noticed. This is typically the first symptom of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. If you have not been to a dentist in a while, the first thing you should do is schedule a dental check-up where your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and additional treatment will be recommended if necessary. You should also make sure you are following a sufficient at-home oral care routine. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
Many people have good oral hygiene habits but still suffer from bleeding gums. Women who are pregnant go through hormone changes that can lead to this. In this case, continue to gently brush your teeth but take extra measures to protect your gums such as using mouthwash. Ill-fitting dentures can also cause the gums to bleed. You may need to have your dentures fixed or have a new set made to prevent further injury to your gums. Bleeding gums can also be a sign of a more serious problem. You should discuss this and other symptoms with your doctor and continue to visit your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleaning.
Most dentists will recommend a soft bristle toothbrush especially if you have a tendency to use a lot of force while brushing. A medium to hard bristle brush can easily irritate the gums and cause bleeding and even lead to major damage to the gums. Your best bet to avoid bleeding gums is to use a soft bristle toothbrush to brush your twice a day for two minutes.