When you brush your teeth, do your gums bleed? If you are like most people, you probably do not give the blood-tinged spit a second thought. You attribute it to brushing too hard. However, this is the first sign of an underlying oral health issue that will need immediate treatment. Bleeding, swollen, and tender gums are an indicator of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Although it may not seem like a large concern, if you do not seek treatment for gum disease in Spring Hill right away, it could lead to the eventual loss of your teeth.
Spotting the Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a chronic problem that affects roughly half of all adults in the United States. Often, the first signs involve red, bleeding, and swollen gums, which often become worse when brushing, flossing or eating. While it may not seem like a big deal, the complications will begin to intensify. Over time, your gum tissue will start to pull away from your teeth, leading to the destruction of the supporting structures and your roots.
As the condition goes untreated, it will cause your teeth to become loose and they may even begin to fall out. The alignment shift can cause your bite to change, and you may also develop sores or pockets of pus in your mouth.
However, your teeth and gums are not the only areas to suffer damage. The bacteria that is responsible for the infection can also enter the bloodstream. As it circulates throughout the body, it will begin to damage your overall health. Medical complications can develop, like cardiovascular disease and respiratory infections.
Stop the Infection and Restore Your Oral Health
Gum disease develops when plaque and tartar accumulate around the gum line due to poor oral hygiene. Bacteria found in the buildup will cause the tissue to become infected. When caught in the early stages, such as when bad breath and bleeding gums are present, it is easily treatable and will not cause any long-term damage.
Unfortunately, most people do not seek treatment when they notice their gums bleeding. As a result, it causes the infection to intensify and irreversible damage will occur. To stop the complications and to restore your gum health, you will need periodontal therapy in Spring Hill.
While in the early stages, a deep cleaning procedure and changes to your oral hygiene habits will restore your oral health. However, if it has reached the advanced stages, more aggressive treatments are needed and the damage may not be reversible.
Protect Your Smile for Damage
If you notice that your gums are bleeding when you brush your teeth, do not wait. Take immediate action to restore your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Loretta Matic has been a trusted dentist in the Nashville area since 1999. In addition to being a graduate of the Southern Illinois School of Dental Medicine, she has more than 80 hours of continued education. If you have questions regarding your gum health, please contact Family Dental Associates today.