My gums bleed during dental checkups: Is this normal?

Healthy gum tissue does not bleed. If gums bleed during a visit to the dentist, you could be experiencing the onset of gum disease. Thankfully, you are at the best place to discover the problem as treatment and education on preventing further damage are readily available.
Gum tissue should be pink and firm. Gum tissue that is red or swollen is a clue for you that dental disease could be in your future. One tooth, one or more quadrants, one or both arches, or your entire mouth could become impacted by the problems associated with gingivitis or periodontitis.
Gum disease evolves from those bleeding gums to include problems such as:
Chronic bad breath: If you are experiencing a sour smell without ingesting strong foods or beverages like onions, garlic, or coffee, you could be dealing with some type of infection. A visit with your dentist will verify whether you are dealing with gum disease or some other type of problem such as infected tonsils or a sinus infection.
Gum shrinkage or loose teeth: Gingivitis is an inflammation that usually includes swelling and soreness. If these symptoms are ignored, the result may mean lost teeth. If gums appear to be pulling away from teeth, a check-up with your dentist is imperative.
What causes dental disease? While research is ongoing to determine if genetics or conditions like heart disease play a role in periodontitis, some facts are a certainty.
Absence of a daily hygiene regimen that includes brushing twice per day with a fluoridated tooth paste or gel and flossing may be the biggest contributor to gum disease. Ignoring daily hygiene care allows foods and beverages to stick to the surfaces of teeth. Plaque builds, and plaque is comprised of bacteria.
The only way to remove plaque build-up is a visit to the dentist for a thorough cleaning. When following dental recommendations of having teeth cleaned and examined by your dentist every six months, plaque that has accumulated since your last visit is removed.
At least once per year, or when needed to diagnose a problem, dental exams are taken to determine if decay or more serious problems are present.
Gum disease prevention involves quitting (or never starting) tobacco use; limiting sugary snacks and beverages; brushing and flossing daily; and visiting the dentist every six months for recommended treatment and dental exam.
To schedule your dental exam, call the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow at 972-458-2464 today.