Bleeding from the gums is the body’s way of telling us that there is a problem with our gums. There might be food or plaque deposits, allowing bacteria to thrive in the affected area. The body starts an inflammatory process to bring more blood and bacteria-fighting cells as it tries to naturally fight back.
Inflamed gums can result in bleeding and tenderness or pain. Without attending to the signs and symptoms, this bacteria can cause further permanent damage, which can include bone loss of the jaws and recession of the gums. This is called gum or periodontal disease.
Just like other medical conditions such as the early stages of high blood pressure or diabetes, majority of people don’t know they suffer from gum disease as it is usually slow and painless. A daily oral hygiene routine can minimize the progression of gum disease, but sometimes the body just needs an extra hand in cleaning out the areas you can’t feel or see.
While the symptoms of gum disease can be subtle, some of the early warning signs include:
Sometimes more severe signs and symptoms can occur. Give us a call immediately if you notice any of the following signs of gum disease:
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease that occurs when gums become inflamed from the bacteria in plaque buildup. It is easily prevented with a good oral hygiene and can be treated without any serious or irreversible damage.
Periodontal disease is a more serious stage of gum disease that results in irreversible damage. The bone that holds the teeth in place is infected and can eventually lead to tooth loss. Professional dental care is a must to prevent further damage.
Scaling and root planning is one of the best ways to restore the health of your gums and ensure any further complications (such as receding gums or tooth loss) are avoided. With this non-surgical treatment, a rigorous deep-cleaning is carried out to scrape away any plaque and tartar accumulated below and above the gumlines.
If scaling and root planning is ineffective, flap surgery might prove necessary in order to reach any infection around the root of your tooth in severe cases of periodontitis. In this procedure, our dentist will lift the gums to remove the tartar accumulated underneath and then sew your gum tissue back in to position. This procedure might cause some minor discomfort, which can be relieved with over-the-counter medication. If your bone has also been damaged due to periodontitis, a bone graft can be used to re-strengthen your jaw bone.
At Purity Dental, we can help you with managing and treating your gum disease, no matter what stage you are in. With advanced dentistry, experienced dental practitioners, and even dental sedation to ease your your anxiety, your oral health is in the safest hands. Simply reach us at 9540 8900 to schedule your appointment or for more details.