Four Ways That Your Dentist Can Help With Bleeding Gums
Posted on: 30 November 2022
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Bleeding gums are a common problem for many people, but it's not something to take lightly. If you have bleeding gums, you may be at risk for developing periodontal disease.
A dentist can help you determine why your gums are bleeding and what treatments are available to stop the bleeding. Here are four ways that your dentist can help with bleeding gums:
1. Your Dentist Can Check For Signs Of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. If you have bleeding gums, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing (SRP). This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup under the gum line with ultrasonic instruments or hand instruments. SRP also includes smoothing out the roots of teeth to improve circulation so they aren't as susceptible to infection by bacteria in plaque.
2. Your Dentist Can Offer Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy is a way to resolve gum disease by using prescription-strength mouthwash or antibiotics to treat the underlying cause of gum inflammation. The therapy usually involves regular visits to the dentist over the course of about six months. It's important for patients to stick with their treatment plan because it's not effective unless they do so consistently.
3. Your Dentist Can Offer Scaling And Root Planing
Scaling involves removing plaque from below the gum line, while root planing removes plaque from below and above the gum line simultaneously. This procedure removes bacteria that cause gingivitis and reduces inflammation in the tissue around your teeth. It helps prevent further damage if you have bleeding gums caused by periodontal disease or poor oral hygiene habits such as smoking or chewing tobacco products.
4. Your Dentist Can Prescribe Medications To Control Gum Disease If Necessary
If you have severe gum disease or loose teeth, medication may be prescribed to control inflammation and reduce pain caused by bleeding gums while they heal. Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation and swelling while antibiotics kill off bacteria in the mouth that causes gum disease. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection if you have loose teeth and are getting them repaired.
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of bleeding gums, it is best to see your dentist as soon as possible. If left untreated, gum disease can cause more serious problems such as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, so it's important to get any issues under control right away.