The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about half of Americans age 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease. One of the most common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are one of the most common dental concerns we treat. This is typically an early sign of a problem and most closely associated with gingivitis. When intercepted early by the dentist, you can easily manage gum disease with little risk of further infection.
Treatment For Bleeding Gums in New Bern, NC
Routine Dental Cleaning
The best way for you to prevent gum disease and bleeding gums is with routine visits to the dentist. Our dental cleanings are performed by a dental hygienist who will gently remove plaque and tartar from around the teeth and gums.
Scaling and Root Planing
If you have bleeding gums, Dr. Hoard may recommend an intensive cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. The dentist will remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets of the gum and smooth the surface of tooth roots.
Laser Dentistry
In some cases, a dental laser may be used to remove infected tissue and eliminate infection. Laser Dentistry is a safe and comfortable treatment that minimizes bleeding and swelling, resulting in faster healing times.
Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy can include any of the treatments above and gum surgery for patients suffering from periodontitis, an advanced stage of gum disease. Dr. Hoard works with a local periodontist who can perform gum surgery and other intensive periodontal therapies.
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Learn more about the causes of and treatments for bleeding gums in New Bern, NC:
Do bleeding gums always mean gum disease?
No, if you have bleeding gums, it doesn’t always mean that you have gum disease. If you brush your teeth too hard, it can irritate your gum tissue. Sometimes, a vitamin deficiency or side effects of new medication can lead to bleeding gums. If your gums continue to bleed even after you brush and floss gently, we recommend that you make a dental appointment with us.
Can my diet affect bleeding gums?
Yes, a poor diet can increase your risk of bleeding gums. Key dietary factors include:
- Vitamin C deficiency weakens gum tissue, increasing bleeding
- High sugar intake promotes harmful bacteria growth
- Insufficient protein reduces the capacity for tissue repair
- Dehydration can contribute to gum inflammation
Eat foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers) and lean proteins. Limit sugary and processed foods and drink plenty of water. These dietary changes can help strengthen gums and reduce bleeding.
Are bleeding gums a dental emergency?
Bleeding gums can be serious, but aren’t always an emergency. Minor bleeding during brushing might just indicate early gum inflammation. However, persistent or heavy bleeding could signal infection, a dental injury, or gum disease.
You should seek emergency dental care if you encounter:
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Severe pain with bleeding
- Bleeding accompanied by swelling
- Bleeding after a dental injury
Do problems like diabetes increase your risk of bleeding gums?
Yes, you may be at an increased risk of bleeding gums if you are diabetic. High blood sugar can:
- Weaken blood vessels in gum tissue
- Reduce the body’s ability to fight infections
- Slow healing processes
- Increase inflammation
Diabetics are more prone to periodontal disease, which causes gum bleeding, recession, and potential tooth loss. To prevent gum problems, maintain good blood sugar control, practice excellent oral hygiene, and make regular dental check-ups.
Why do I have bleeding gums when I’m pregnant?
Bleeding gums during pregnancy can be a sign of pregnancy gingivitis. Pregnant women are more likely to experience gum inflammation due to changes in the hormones progesterone and estrogen.
If you are pregnant and notice bleeding gums, we will recommend that you visit our office for a dental cleaning. We will also recommend that you continue to brush and floss every day.
How much does it cost to treat bleeding gums?
The cost to treat bleeding gums can vary based on the cause and the type of treatment you need. For mild cases, such as gingivitis, we may recommend professional cleanings, which are the least expensive treatment.
If bleeding gums are a sign of more advanced gum disease, you may need deep cleaning treatments like scaling and root planing. These treatments cost more than regular cleaning.
Additional treatments, such as gum surgery or antibiotic therapy, may also add to the cost. To get an accurate idea of the cost, visit our dentist for an evaluation. Early treatment often helps prevent more expensive procedures later on.
Do dental lasers cause bleeding gums?
Dental lasers are not known to cause bleeding gums. In fact, they are often used to treat gum problems and reduce bleeding. Lasers can target and remove diseased gum tissue with high precision, which helps stop bleeding and promote faster healing.
We actually use lasers to treat gum disease or reshape the gums. Because lasers are so precise and gentle, they usually cause less bleeding and discomfort compared to traditional tools like scalpels.
Why do my gums bleed after a professional dental cleaning?
It’s normal for your gums to bleed a little after a professional dental cleaning. They can bleed if you have plaque or tartar buildup, or if you have inflamed gums. Bleeding often happens because the cleaning removes buildup from around the gumline. Your gums may already be sensitive or swollen from gingivitis or other minor issues.
Floss or special tools during the cleaning can also irritate the gums slightly, causing bleeding. This should stop in a day or two as your gums heal. If you brush, floss, and make regular dental visits, it can improve gum health and reduce bleeding over time. If the bleeding continues or is heavy, let our dentist know.
