Address Bleeding Gums in Skokie, IL
Bleeding gums are the result of a bacterial infection in the gums, and poor oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar buildup up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation in the gum tissue. Your dentist needs to remove plaque and tartar regularly so your teeth and gums remain in the best condition.
Signs of Gum Disease
Statistics show that over 75% of adults have some form of gum disease. Dentists can easily spot if you have gum disease during a routine dental exam. However, sometimes patients don’t even show noticeable symptoms of this common oral disease. So visit our dentist for an exam when you notice changes in your gum health.
Gum disease is not only one of the most common dental health problems, it’s the underlying cause of many other issues. Gum disease can develop quickly and easily. Especially as a result of the modern American diet, which is typically high in added sugar.
During an oral exam, our dentist checks for signs of gum infection and determines if you need gum treatments. Maintaining great oral health and reduce the incidence of gum disease and tooth decay by visiting The Stein Center. We provide routine preventive care and advice for a good at-home oral hygiene routine.
Common signs of gum disease may include:
- Swollen, red gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Tooth sensitivity
- Painful chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice one or more of these signs, be sure to contact our Skokie, IL, dental office for a gum disease screening. Our personalized approach to your dental care means that your results will support your long-term dental health and wellness.
Treatment Options For Gum Disease in Skokie, IL
At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we take our time to get to know our patients, assess their needs, and consider their budget. Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss will examine the health of your teeth, gums, and bone structure to check for signs of gum disease. Next, we will determine the stage and progression of gum disease and asses the surrounding structure for signs of damage.
With the information from your assessment, we can begin to build a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan for your mouth. We offer a wide range of periodontal therapy solutions to address varying stages of gum disease. Our goal is to stop gum disease from progressing, fix damage, and minimize the risk of new infections.
We may recommend one or more of the following periodontal therapy treatments to treat gum disease:
- Scaling and Root Planing
- Laser Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
- Gum Surgery
- Antibacterial Rinses
Bleeding Gums FAQs
If you have bleeding gums in Skokie, IL, it could be a sign of a more serious issue. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.
Are bleeding gums a sign of serious dental issues?
While occasional bleeding gums can be due to minor irritation, persistent bleeding often indicates a more serious issue, such as gum disease. If not addressed, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, leading to tooth loss and other health complications. It’s important to consult a dentist if bleeding continues.
Can my gums bleed from a vitamin deficiency?
Yes. The most common vitamin deficiencies linked to bleeding gums are vitamin C and vitamin K.
Not getting enough vitamin C (found in citrus fruits, peppers, and broccoli) can weaken your gum tissue and blood vessels, making gums more likely to bleed, swell, or become inflamed. In severe cases, this can lead to scurvy, a condition that causes gum problems and poor wound healing.
Vitamin K (found in leafy greens, eggs, and fish) helps your blood clot properly. Without enough vitamin K, you might notice more bleeding from your gums.
Can dehydration cause bleeding gums?
When your body doesn’t get enough water, it produces less saliva, which normally helps protect your gums and teeth. Without enough saliva, harmful bacteria can build up more easily, irritating your gums and making them more likely to bleed when you brush or floss.
Dehydration can also make your mouth dry and your gum tissue weaker, increasing the risk of inflammation and small cracks that may bleed.
What should I do if my gums bleed while brushing?
If your gums bleed while brushing, it could be a sign of inflammation or gum disease. First, ensure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently. If bleeding persists, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a thorough evaluation and professional cleaning.
When should I see a dentist about bleeding gums?
If you experience persistent bleeding gums, especially if they are accompanied by swelling, pain, or changes in gum color, you should see a dentist. Prompt evaluation can help identify underlying issues and prevent further complications. Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining gum health.
How can I tell if my gums are healthy?
Healthy gums appear firm and pink and do not bleed during brushing or flossing. You should not experience swelling or tenderness. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor gum health, and your dentist can provide assessments and recommendations to maintain healthy gums.
Can bleeding gums indicate systemic health issues?
Yes, bleeding gums can be a sign of systemic health issues, such as diabetes, blood disorders, or autoimmune diseases. These conditions can affect blood clotting and the health of gum tissue. If you notice persistent bleeding, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider.
What role does smoking play in gum health?
Smoking has a significant negative impact on gum health. It reduces blood flow to the gums, making it harder for them to heal and increasing the risk of gum disease. Smokers are more likely to experience bleeding gums and other dental issues. Quitting smoking can improve overall oral health.
Schedule a Consultation
Our dental care team in Skokie, IL, helps our patients improve their gum health and get one step closer to optimal dental health. We regularly encourage patients to visit our office at least twice a year for their routine dental exam.
Schedule a gum disease screening and oral exam by calling 847-750-3125. You can also request an appointment online.