26 Jan The 101 on Bleeding Gums: Cause for concern or normal side effect of brushing?
Patients may not know whether bleeding gums are cause for concern, especially if they only experience this symptom during or after brushing their teeth. In short, bleeding gums are never a normal effect of anything. They always signal the presence of some form of inflammation in the gums, typically as early-stage gum disease.
If you experience bleeding gums, you should consult with your dentist to get treatment for the underlying condition. This symptom is often a result of gingivitis, which is the mildest form of gum disease. Although gum disease sounds like a scary proposition, gingivitis can actually be treated rather easily with a thorough cleaning by a professional hygienist. In fact, gingivitis is a far more affordable dentistry option than trying to save money by forgoing treatment. When gum disease goes untreated, it will only progress. As the condition becomes more severe, it requires more involved interventions to control it.
Other symptoms of gingivitis include redness or swelling of the gums. These problems also warrant a trip to the dentist to be evaluated for treatment.
You should be getting exams and professional cleanings on a regular basis, at least every six months. Such routine affordable dentistry exams help to identify problems like gingivitis in their earliest stages, when you stick to a schedule of semi-annual appointments.
Additionally, acting early to get gum disease treatment can also limit disruption to your routine. A thorough cleaning for gingivitis will take no more than an hour of your time. Gum surgery, on the other hand, will take several hours in addition to the time that patients must allocate to recovery.
Don’t disregard bleeding gums. They often indicate the presence of gum disease, and when you get that condition treated promptly, you will save yourself time and money, not to mention preserve your oral health. If you notice bleeding gums or any other symptoms of gingivitis, contact the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow at 972-458-2464 to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible.