How to Stop Bleeding Gums

Dental science has made a lot of progress this year. Studies have connected oral hygiene to major cardiovascular problems and even dementia.

People have always known that good oral health can prevent painful conditions and expensive procedures, but now, scientists have proven that a comprehensive dental routine is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. If you notice any issues with the health of your mouth, such as swollen gums, it’s important to contact a dentist immediately.

If you’re located in Riverside County, there’s no dentist with a reputation like Dr. Derek B. Hauser, DDS. After 20 years in the field, Dr. Hauser has mastered his craft. If you notice any discoloration or pain in your gums, don’t delay. Contact Lakefront Family Dentistry at (951) 244-9495 or Request an Appointment Online Today!

What Causes Gums to Swell?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the most common cause of swelling. It is the result of a poor oral-health routine. If you don’t brush and floss regularly with proper technique, and if you don’t receive professional dental cleanings twice each year, you are at a high risk of developing gum disease.

More than 75 percent of U.S. adults over the age of 35 will get periodontal disease. The least-severe form is gingivitis, but this can advance to more serious stages. Although common, gum disease can be painful, and if the gums are bleeding, bacteria have an open route to the blood vessels that lead to the brain.

The principal cause of gum disease is poor hygiene, which leads to bacteria growth in the mouth. This forms plaque on the teeth and causes gum inflammation. Your gums may turn red, swell or start to bleed.

If treated early, gingivitis can be cured entirely. But if left unaddressed, the condition will advance, and eventually, teeth will start to fall out. If you have any of the following symptoms, call Lakefront Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment:

• Teeth don’t fit together well while biting
• Pockets form behind gums and teeth
• Gums bleed after or during brushing
• Teeth are loose or start to shift
• Breath smells bad
• Gums start to recede
• Gums are swollen, red or tender

Periodontitis is a progressed form of gingivitis, and it causes the bone and gums that anchor the teeth to weaken. Bacteria on the teeth produce toxins that damage the gums and cause infection. This infection is what causes the inflammation, which is an immune system response.

The efforts of your body to cure the infection further damage the bone and gums. Eventually, this process causes teeth to fall out.

Treatments for Bleeding Gums

If you would like to know how to stop bleeding gums, your first step should be scheduling a dental appointment. Dr. Hauser will clean your teeth and provide advice for developing an effective oral-care routine.

Here are a few tips that can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy.

1. Watch your diet. Coffee, red wine and dark tea can all cause noticeable stains. If you cannot eliminate these items from your diet, make sure you brush immediately after consumption.

2. Replace your toothbrush or the head of your electric brush every two months. A new brush head is more effective than an old, work-out brush. Also, overused brushes contain bacteria that can harm your teeth.

3. Brush your tongue. Not only will brushing your tongue eliminate plaque-causing bacteria, but it also will freshen your breath.

4. Eat crisp, firm foods, like carrots, celery and apples. These naturally clean your teeth.

5. Gargle apple-cider vinegar. Do this each morning before brushing your teeth. It will help remove stains and kill bacteria.

6. Once each week, brush with baking soda. This will help remove stains and keep your teeth white.

7. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol dries out the tissue in the mouth, making it more susceptible to damage from bacteria. If you want to test your breath for freshness, lick your hand and smell your palm. If you don’t like the scent, try taking a sugar-free mint and implementing the steps above.

Of course, it’s important to schedule regular dental cleanings. Dr. Hauser not only is an industry-leading cosmetic dentist, but he’s also a family dentist. He has treated patients of all ages, and your kids will love his friendly staff and comfortable, A-dec furniture.

You might have more questions about how to stop bleeding gums. For more information about treating swollen gums, Contact Lakefront Family Dentistry at (951) 244-9495 or Request an Appointment Online Today!