Address Bleeding Gums in Skokie, IL
Why do my gums bleed? Bleeding gums may be the result of a bacterial infection in the gums. When plaque and tartar buildup up on the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation in the gum tissue. Plaque and tartar need to be regularly removed in order for the teeth and gums to remain in optimal condition.
Signs of Gum Disease
With statistics showing that over 75% of adults have some stage of gum disease, it is not unusual for your dentist to spot it during a routine dental exam. Sometimes patients don’t even show noticeable symptoms of this common oral disease. When patients notice changes in their dental health, it is imperative that they visit their dentist for an oral examination. During an oral exam, your dentist can check for signs of dysfunction or infection and determine if further treatment is needed.
Gum disease is not only one of the most common dental health problems, it is often the underlying cause of many other dental problems. Gum disease can develop quickly and easily, especially as a result of the modern American diet, which is typically high in added sugar. The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry emphasizes the need for both routine preventive care AND a good at-home oral hygiene routine as part of maintaining oral health and reducing the incidence of gum disease and tooth decay.
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 dentist’s office for a gum disease screening. Our experienced team of dentists is dedicated to helping you improve your dental health. Our personalized approach to your dental care means that your results will support your long-term dental health and wellness.
Bleeding gums FAQs
What causes bleeding when brushing teeth?
While brushing or flossing teeth, patients may notice their gums begin to bleed. This is due to plaque buildup around the gum line. Plaque harbors bacteria that cause gum inflammation, making your gums bleed.
How do you stop bleeding gums?
The best way to top bleeding gums is to practice a good oral care routine, brushing twice a day and flossing once. Patients may take vitamin C or K supplements in order to boost their immunity and lessen the bleeding. Stress can be a cause for bleeding gums as well. Lowering stress levels is a good way to alleviate gum sensitivity.
How long does it take for bleeding gums to heal?
Unless you have gum disease, bleeding gums should stop about a week after you visit your dentist for treatment. Rinsing with saltwater, brushing, and flossing will help speed up the healing process.
How do you know if bleeding gums is serious?
Bleeding gums can be caused by a variety of issues, some being more serious than others. If your bleeding gums are accompanied by gum irritation, bad breath, or bad tastes in your mouth, it may be a sign of periodontal disease. It is a good idea to see your dentist if you are concerned about your bleeding gums.
Is gum disease painful?
Gum disease can be painful, but it doesn’t always involve pain. Some patients have gum disease and are entirely unaware of it. The first signs of gum disease are constant red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
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 build personalized treatment plans that are right for them. During your visit, Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss will examine the health and function 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 for your assessment, we can begin to build a comprehensive periodontal treatment plan for your smile. We offer a wide range of periodontal therapy solutions to address varying stages of gum disease. The goal of periodontal therapy is to stop the progression of gum disease, correct any damage, and minimize the risk of reinfection.
We may recommend one or more of the following treatments to treat gum disease:
- Scale and Root Planing
- Laser Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
- Gum Surgery
- Antibacterial Rinse
Our dental care team in Skokie, IL, is dedicated to helping 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. If you would like to schedule a gum disease screening and oral exam, call 847.750.3125 or request an appointment online.