Service
Gum Disease Therapy
Why Are Your Gums Bleeding?
Notice pink in the sink after brushing? Your gums are sending a message – they need some care. Let’s look at why this happens:
Plaque: The Main Culprit
Bleeding gums often mean plaque has overstayed its welcome. This sticky bacteria film builds up on teeth, bothering gums and making them touchy. Brushing or flossing might cause these irritated gums to bleed a bit. Dentists call this early gum problem “gingivitis.”
Recognizing the Symptoms
Gingivitis can be tricky – bleeding might be your only sign. But watch for puffy, red, or sore gums, stubborn bad breath, loose teeth, or changes in how your teeth meet when you bite.
The Upside
Caught soon, gingivitis can be fully reversed. So don’t brush off those bleeding gums!
Other Possible Causes
Sometimes, bleeding gums point to different issues:
- Too little Vitamin C or K in your meals
- Pregnancy causing swollen gums
- Blood issues like thrombocytopenia or hemophilia
- Rarely, scurvy (yes, the old sailor disease!)
Periodontitis: A Silent Threat to Your Smile
Neglected plaque causes your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating tiny hideouts for troublemaking bacteria. These pockets become breeding grounds for harm, allowing germs to attack your gums and the bone supporting your teeth. If left unchecked, what starts as simple gingivitis can evolve into periodontitis – a severe condition that threatens both teeth and bone.
This progression can lead to:
- Painful abscesses
- Teeth shifting out of place, messing with your bite
- Exposed tooth roots, making teeth look longer and feel sensitive
- Beyond Your Mouth
Surprisingly, the effects of gum disease don’t stop at your smile. Research suggests links between periodontitis and other health issues like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even certain cancers. For expectant mothers, it may increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
Scientists think the body-wide inflammation caused by gum disease might be the culprit behind these unexpected connections. Don’t ignore bleeding gums—they’re your mouth’s way of asking for help. Regular check-ups at Horizon Family Dentistry can catch and treat gum issues early, keeping your smile—and potentially your overall health—in top shape
Gum Disease Risk Factors: What Increases Your Chances?
While gum disease can affect anyone, some things make it more likely. Let’s look at the main factors:
Age: Getting Older Raises Risk
Your odds of gum problems go up as you age. About half of people over 30 and 70% past 65 have some gum issues.
Stress: Not Just Mental Pressure
Feeling tense affects more than your mind. Stress can also harm your gums and other parts of your health.
Medicines: Helpful Yet Risky
Some drugs that treat other conditions may increase gum disease risk. These include certain antidepressants, blood thinners, heart medicines, and birth control.
Genes: Family History Matters
Some people are more likely to get gum disease. If you think this might be you, ask your dentist about a quick gene test to check.
Smoking: A Big Danger
People who use tobacco have twice the risk of gum disease as non-smokers. Also, treatments don’t work as well if you smoke often.
Other Things That Raise Risk:
Not cleaning teeth well
Eating foods without enough nutrients
Grinding or clenching teeth
Knowing what puts you at risk is critical to prevention. Regular dentist visits can catch and treat gum problems early, keeping your smile healthy long-term.
How to Stop Gum Bleeding?
Visit Horizon Family Dentistry promptly if you notice any issues and need a thorough gum health check. Our Havelock dental team will create a rigorous oral care plan to help restore your gum health.
Follow these steps to prevent and treat bleeding gums:
Clean your teeth after meals and before sleep
Pick a mild fluoride toothpaste without Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Use floss to clean between teeth twice daily
Swish with mouthwash after brushing
Schedule check-ups with our Havelock dentists every six months for cleanings and exams
Remember, early intervention is critical to maintaining healthy gums. By following these simple steps and seeking professional care, you can effectively manage and prevent gum bleeding, ensuring optimal oral health for years to come.
Book A New Patient Exam
It all starts with a phone call at Horizon Family Dentistry. When you call our Havelock Dental Clinic, our friendly staff will help you select an appointment time that is convenient for you and your family.
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75 Concession St., Box 540
Havelock, ON K0L 1Z0
7052433856
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 4:00pm
Friday: 8:00am - 12:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed