Bleeding gums are one of the most common dental concerns patients bring to Dr. Conor Gessell at our Southern Pines dental practice. While many people experience occasional gum bleeding while brushing or flossing, persistent bleeding is never normal and often signals an underlying issue that needs attention.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
Bleeding gums most commonly result from plaque buildup along the gumline. This sticky film of bacteria produces toxins that irritate the gums, causing inflammation, redness, and bleeding. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and is completely reversible with proper care.
Other causes include aggressive brushing techniques that traumatize gum tissue, blood-thinning medications, hormonal changes during pregnancy, vitamin deficiencies (particularly C and K), and sometimes more serious health conditions like diabetes or bleeding disorders.
Why Bleeding Gums Matter
Bleeding gums deserve your attention because they often serve as an early warning sign of gum disease, which can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone supporting your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Research has established connections between gum disease and several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory issues, and pregnancy complications. The inflammation associated with gum disease may play a role in these connections, highlighting why addressing bleeding gums promptly is essential for both oral and overall health.
How Dr. Gessell Addresses Bleeding Gums
At our Southern Pines practice, Dr. Gessell takes a comprehensive approach to bleeding gums. Your appointment begins with a thorough exam to find the cause and extent of the problem. This includes measuring the spaces between your teeth and gums to assess gum disease progression.
For mild gingivitis, a professional dental cleaning may be sufficient to remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t reach. Dr. Gessell will also provide guidance on improving your home care routine.
For more advanced cases, Dr. Gessell may recommend scaling and root planing, a deeper cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths rough spots on tooth roots. Sometimes antimicrobial treatments or antibiotics might complement this procedure to control infection.
Throughout treatment, Dr. Gessell partners with you to monitor improvement and adjust treatment as needed. We’ll restore your gums to full health and prevent gingivitis from coming back.
Preventing Bleeding Gums
Most cases of bleeding gums can be prevented through proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. Dr. Gessell recommends:
- Brushing thoroughly twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, focusing on technique rather than force. Electric toothbrushes can be effective while remaining gentle on gums.
- Flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. If you find flossing difficult, our team can demonstrate proper technique.
- Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support gum health, particularly vitamins C and D, calcium, and antioxidants.
- Avoiding tobacco products, which significantly increase gum disease risk and can mask symptoms by reducing blood flow to the gums.
- Visiting Dr. Gessell regularly for professional cleanings and examinations to remove tartar buildup and catch potential problems early.
When to See Dr. Gessell
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gessell if you notice:
- Gums that bleed during or after brushing or flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
- Loose teeth or changes in bite
Early intervention is key, as early gum disease is often painless despite visible bleeding.
Your Partner in Gum Health
Dr. Conor Gessell is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain healthy gums as the foundation of your overall oral health. Through personalized treatment plans, patient education, and supportive care, we can address bleeding gums effectively and help prevent their recurrence.
Contact our office at 910-390-1259 or schedule an appointment online if you have bleeding gums. Your healthy smile is our priority.