When you brush your teeth in the morning or at night, are your gums starting to bleed more often than not? This can be an indication of an oral health issue known as gum disease. About half of adults over 30 have some form of it, and it starts as gingivitis. Thankfully, any damage can be reversed if it’s caught early. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms and why visiting your dentist is important.
Are There Warning Signs of Gingivitis?
Gum disease is an infection in the soft tissues of your mouth, and it can cause a myriad of problems. Gingivitis is the early stage of it, with red flags that might be hard to spot at first. It’s important to understand the signs and visit your dentist right away when you spot them. Here are some common symptoms that people experience:
- Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
- Tender, sore, swollen, or inflamed gums
- Discoloration, often being noticeably red or reddish-purple
- You have persistent bad breath
What Should I Do If I Have These Symptoms?
If you are experiencing any of these signs of gingivitis, then it doesn’t hurt to reach out to your dentist. It may be more than sensitivity, so it’s important to ensure that it isn’t a bigger problem. Your dentist will perform an oral examination and figure out whether or not you have gum disease.
The good news is that damage can typically be reversed in this early stage. Your provider will want to handle the infection. Doing this will help encourage your gums to reattach to your teeth since the bacteria in your mouth caused them to separate initially.
How Does My Dentist Treat Gingivitis?
One way that your dentist can manage gum disease is with scaling and root planing. This is a two-part procedure that helps remove harmful plaque that has built up along your gumline. Using special tools, they will gently clear away any tartar. After, they will shape your teeth and smooth them out to help prevent bacteria from hanging out there. Some people may benefit from an antibiotic once their treatment is finished, but it depends on your case!
Keep the signs of early gum disease in mind while you are caring for your oral health! By being proactive and talking to your dentist, you can help ensure that your smile stays the best it can be.
About the Author
Dr. Charles Parker earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. With over four decades of experience, he is proud to help those get the pristine grin they deserve. Dr. Parker offers a wide range of dental services, including managing gum disease. By going to him for help, you can enjoy comfortable and effective treatments. If your gums bleed when you brush, schedule an appointment or call his office at (903) 935-6351.