Bleeding gums is usually the first sign of gum disease
Washington DC Dentists, Dr. John and Dr. Jeremi Arroyo emphasize the important role that routine dental care can play in preventing gum disease. These routine visits provide the opportunity for us to spot the early warning signs of gum disease and offer conservative treatment to quickly restore health before permanent damage is done. Gum disease remains a leading cause of tooth loss in adults today.
Most people take care of their teeth and gums in hopes for a white, beautiful smile. But did you know that when you brush, floss, and visit the dentist at least twice a year, you’re also doing your heart a favor?
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Constant bad breath
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Change in bite
- Gum and teeth separation
Gum disease is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Inflammation caused by gum disease may be responsible for heart disease. The bacteria that occurs when gums are infected is also found in the heart and is harmful to the rest of your body. If the gum layer is disrupted, bacteria from the mouth travels into your bloodstream, moving throughout the body. The bacteria found in gum disease can play a role in strokes and heart problems.
According to a recent study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, treating gum disease can lead to better health among those with certain conditions. An analysis was conducted of health and dental records from 339,000 people who had gum disease and one of the following: type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), rheumatoid arthritis, or pregnancy. The results concluded that those treated for gum disease had lower medical costs and less hospitalizations within four years than those that weren’t treated. Specifically, those with cardiovascular disease who also had gum disease treated had medical costs 20-40% lower than those who did not have treatment.
Though more research is needed to declare a cause and effect relationship between gum health and heart disease, experts do agree that there is a link. At the very minimum, gum health can be an indicator of heart problems. Those with poor oral health have more heart attacks than those with better hygiene and gum health.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums
If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, discuss this with Dr. John or Dr. Jeremi at your next visit to the District Dental Solutions for Aesthetic Dentistry in Washington, DC. There are a number of treatment options for bleeding gums depending on your condition:
- Routine Dental Cleaning: The best way for you to prevent gum disease and bleeding gums is routine dental care. Our dental cleanings are performed by a registered dental hygienist who will gently remove plaque and tartar from around the teeth and gums.
- Scaling & Root Planing: If you have bleeding gums, we may recommend an intensive cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. Dr. John or Dr. Jeremi Arroyo will remove plaque and tartar from deep pockets of the gum and smooth the surface of tooth roots.
Routine visits to the dentist can help you prevent and manage gum disease in any stage. Dr. John and Dr. Jeremi Arroyo offer comprehensive periodontal therapy and screen patients for gum disease at every preventive dental care visit.
