Why are my gums bleeding when I brush my teeth?
Bleeding gums are not normal. Gums that bleed with gentle routine brushing or flossing may have a bacterial infection known as gum disease. Patients should seek dental care immediately for a chance at conservative treatment. Bacterial infections of the gums are common, progressive, and left untreated can deteriorate a patient’s oral wellness.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adult patients.
Gum disease is a progressive condition that worsens when left untreated. Most easily treated in the early stages of gingivitis, commonly patients are able to control the spread of bacteria with improved oral hygiene and a thorough professional tooth and gum cleaning. As the infection spreads scaling & root planning, laser therapy, or gum surgery may be necessary to repair damage and restore oral health.
Why Gums Bleed
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. As bacteria multiply and spread, gums become tender, white in color and inflamed. Irritated gum tissue is very sensitive. When patients brush or floss the infected gum tissue easily breaks and begins to bleed. Eventually, the unhealthy gum tissue will peel away from the tooth and the root. Gum recession is a common side effect of gum disease leaving teeth vulnerable to shifting or falling out.
Patients with gum disease may experience:
- Bleeding gums
- Tooth decay
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Bone deterioration
- Facial sagging
Schedule A Dental Exam
If your gums bleed routinely when brushing or flossing be sure to contact Dr. Kaplan, a family and general dentist in the Cincinnati, OH area offering comprehensive and personalized treatment for gum disease. We welcome new patients and families to our comfortable, state of the art dentist office. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Kaplan, call our office at (513) 540-4630 or request a comprehensive exam using our convenient online form.