2272 Barataria Blvd. Marrero, LA 70072

Bleeding Gums Marrero, LA

According to the American Dental Association, more than 7 out of 10 adults suffer from some form of gum disease. An early indication of gum disease is bleeding gums. When intercepted early by the dentist, gum disease can be easily managed with little risk of further infection. New Orleans dentists Dr. Maria Burmaster and Dr. Valerie Hemphill are highly experienced with preventive care and managed treatment of dental concerns like bleeding gums, gingivitis, and gum disease.

bleeding gums treatment

The Stages of Gum Disease

There are multiple stages of gum disease as it progresses. Each of these creates different mouth conditions and requires different treatment methods to manage.

Gingivitis

This is the first stage of gum disease, and it’s the only one that’s reversible. It starts with plaque buildup at your gumline. This sticky film contains bacteria and food debris that irritate and inflame the gum tissue. Bleeding gums is one of the first symptoms you experience. The tissue becomes a bit swollen and irritated, and more prone to bleeding. None of the symptoms of gingivitis are painful, making it hard for patients to realize they have it.

However, it’s crucial that the instant you notice a pattern of bleeding gums, you contact us. It allows us to be proactive with treatment to reverse the condition. Usually, the treatment plan is more frequent oral healthcare. You’ll need to brush and floss diligently, and we’ll recommend that you come into the office for cleanings more often. We may also recommend or prescribe an antimicrobilal mouth rinse to manage the harmful bacteria population.

Mild Periodontal Disease

Once the condition reaches this stage, we can no longer reverse it. However, we can manage it. The bacteria become more aggressive and start to attack bone, as well as the soft tissue. Your jawbone starts to deteriorate. At this stage, we use scaling and root planing to manage it. Pockets form between the gum tissue and jawbone, accumulating bacteria and debris. We clean out these pockets and smooth down the tooth roots so that the gum tissue reattaches to the jawbone.

Moderate Periodontal Disease

The bacteria continue to evolve and become more aggressive at this stage. Not only are they attacking bone, but they get into the bloodstream, too, carrying infection and inflammation throughout your body. This can cause serious issues in other parts of your body. We use scaling and root planing to manage the condition in this stage as well.

Severe Periodontal Disease

At this stage, the condition has completely evolved into aggressive, disease-causing bacteria. Your gums ooze pus and blood, you have severely bad breath that can’t be tamed, and it’s painful to chew and bite your food. The foundation for your teeth erodes, so they become loose and can even fall out. Only laser gum treatment or periodontal surgery can manage the condition once it reaches this stage. We’ll refer you to a trusted local periodontist for treatment.

Treatment of Bleeding Gums And Gum Disease

If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, you should inform your dentist on your next visit. There are several treatment options for bleeding gums, depending on your condition:

  • Routine Dental Cleaning: The best way 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 & Root Planing: If you have bleeding gums, Dr. Burmaster and Dr. Hemphill 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.
  • 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. We may perform periodontal therapy and gum surgery in our New Orleans dental office or refer you to a specialist for treatment.

How To Avoid Bleeding Gums

Aggressive brushing and flossing can cause bleeding gums even when gum disease is not an issue. Always use a soft toothbrush and brush using a gentle, circular motion. Brushing back and forth can damage gums, making them more likely to bleed and/or recede. When flossing, carefully slide the floss between teeth and gently follow the curve of each tooth. Forcing the floss up and down can cut gums, causing them to bleed.

Explore Topics Related To Gum Disease

Bleeding Gums FAQs

When should I worry about bleeding gums?

It’s natural to accidentally make your gums bleed every once in a while. Maybe your toothbrush or floss slips and causes an issue. But it shouldn’t be happening every time you brush your teeth. If it’s a regular thing occurring multiple times a week, you need to make a dentist appointment. This is one of the early signs of gum disease.

Can you cure bleeding gums?

Yes, you can cure bleeding gums. Gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, is the only stage you can reverse. You may be able to treat it solely with better brushing and flossing. Your dentist may also recommend an antibacterial mouthwash that helps to kill the bacteria that cause the disease.

Can supplements help my gum health?

Yes, Vitamin C has been shown to help improve gum health. Lower Vitamin C levels occur in people who are likely to bleed from gum probing. It helps the lining of your gums stay strong and healthy.

Can bleeding gums impact the rest of your body?

Yes, gum disease has implications for your entire body. The bacteria that cause gum disease and inflammation can get into your bloodstream via bleeding gums. This carries the bacteria and inflammation throughout your body, causing problems in other areas. Heart attacks, strokes, and other vascular problems are more likely to occur in people that have bleeding gums.

Does gum damage grow back?

No, once periodontal disease damages your gums, these diseased parts can’t grow back. There are other treatment options to help you if you have receding or damaged gums.

How can I help keep my gums healthy?

The most important thing is diligent oral hygiene. Brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly. If you’re particularly worried about your gums, look for oral health products that are designed to help your gum health.

Schedule A Consultation

If you notice your gums bleeding daily, be sure to contact your Barataria dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention could prevent further damage to your oral health.

Our dentist office provides dental care to children and adult patients in the Marrero, LA area. We welcome new patients from all over the greater New Orleans, LA area to experience our comprehensive and compassionate dentistry. If you are experiencing a specific dental concern or are looking for a new family dentist, contact our dentist office today at 504.358.8632 or request a consultation using our convenient online form.