Bleeding gums is a telltale sign of gingivitis, or early-stage gum disease. So does that mean you have gingivitis if you notice your gums bleed every time you floss? In this blog post, we’ll help you understand what you should do if your gums bleed when you floss, and how to determine if you have gum disease, and how we can treat gum issues at our Chico, California dental office.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a progressive disorder that affects the gums, or the tissue that supports and protects your teeth. When plaque and bacteria collect under the gum line, the gums slowly begin to separate from the teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay and loss. Gum disease is usually caused by a lack of oral hygiene, but can be triggered by diet, taking certain medications, smoking, or genetics.
Common signs of gum disease include:
Swollen or red gums
Bleeding gums, especially when you brush and floss your teeth
Bad breath
Tender gums
Receding gums
How to Stop Bleeding Gums
If you are experiencing other signs and symptoms of gum disease along with bleeding gums, reach out to your dentist right away. Your dentist can conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and develop a custom treatment plan just for your smile.
At Gary Johnson, DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry we offer periodontal therapy which involves scaling and root planing to help restore the health of your gums depending on what stage of gum disease you might have.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Prevention is always best. In order to avoid developing gingivitis and gum disease, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly twice a day. Make sure you brush your teeth using brisk, small circles to clean the entire surface of each tooth, and be gentle while flossing so that you don’t cause injury to your gums. Don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year for comprehensive oral exams!
Gum Disease Treatment in Chico, CA
We don’t just offer specialized gum treatment at Gary Johnson, DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Our services span from preventative care to restorative care for the whole family. Our reviews speak for themselves! Contact us today to schedule an appointment!