Healthy gums are instrumental to maintaining the health of the whole mouth. Treating bleeding gums promptly and effectively can avoid more complex problems associated with advanced periodontal disease.
Dr. Paul Karpovich offers treatment for gum inflammation, gum disease, and bleeding gums in his Timonium, MD office. Treating symptoms of gum disease can also help prevent heart problems. Inflammation can affect the heart and lead to problems like heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
There are multiple causes of bleeding gums including:
- Gum Disease: Periodontitis is caused by harmful bacteria feeding on food particles left on and around the gums. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent these bacteria from accumulating and creating plaque. Bacteria can cause gingivitis and then periodontitis, or gum disease.
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis is marked by inflamed, red, swollen, and bleeding gums. However, gingivitis can be easily reversed if caught early. It is important to treat gingivitis as soon as possible because gum disease can cause gum recession as well as bone and tooth loss.
- Medication: Certain medications including aspirin, birth control, and blood pressure medication can contribute to dental problems like bleeding gums. During routine visits, please us know which medicines you are taking so we can determine if they are contributing to your bleeding gums.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums
Antibacterial rinses can be used to fight off gingivitis. They remove harmful bacteria and help with gum irritation and swelling. Scaling and root planing can remove gum infection on and beneath the gums. During these treatments, our dental hygienists use specialized dental tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria. These tools allow them to reach beneath the gums to smooth the surface of the tooth roots. Scaling and root planing help prevent tooth loss by reattaching the gums to the teeth.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
Are you noticing red, swollen, irritated, or bleeding gums? Contact Dr. Karpovich for comprehensive treatment at (410) 221-3085 or request an appointment with him on our website. Let him know if you have questions about your specific symptoms or treatment plan. Dr. Karpovich is here to help.