Do Your Gums Bleed?

Do your gums bleed? If so, you may be suffering from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease has been linked to several other chronic diseases including high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, dementia, and impotence among men. If you have periodontal disease it is important that you get it treated. Gingivitis–the mildest stage of periodontal disease–is reversible, but once you develop periodontitis–the severest stage of the disease–it is non-reversible and harder to treat. Bleeding gums are a result of periodontal disease, but there are other reasons your gums may bleed. Read on to find out why your gums might bleed.

Reasons for Bleeding Gums

Reason #1: The symptoms of periodontal disease include swollen, deep red, tender, receding gums, and gums that bleed easily when flossing or brushing.

Reason #2: A tooth that has been chipped, fractured, cracked, or damaged in some other way can become infected with bacteria resulting in bleeding gums.

Reason #3: When a dental treatment has not been carried out properly such as fillings or crowns that don’t fit properly, bacteria can invade the area and cause bleeding gums.

Reason #4: Certain medications can cause bleeding gums such as blood pressure medications.

Reason #5:Certain diseases can cause tender, bleeding gums including diabetes and cancer.

Reason #6: Sometimes bleeding gums can be due to crowded, overlapping, or misaligned teeth.

Reason #7: People without dental insurance often do not visit the dentist for years until they have a problem.  When you have stop receiving professional dental cleanings twice yearly you may end up with bleeding gums.

The American Dental Association recommends brushing for two minutes, twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and rinsing with a non-alcoholic, antibacterial mouthwash.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.