Gum health is often overshadowed by the focus on teeth care. Many people may notice bleeding gums but dismiss it, thinking it’s only related to brushing too hard. However, bleeding gums can signal deeper issues. At Peppermint Dental & Orthodontics in Sherman, TX, we emphasize the importance of comprehensive oral health and encourage everyone to pay attention to any warning signs.

Here are four common causes of bleeding gums beyond improper brushing and how our expert periodontist in Sherman can help you restore your smile.

1. Gingivitis and Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease characterized by bleeding gums. It is often caused by the buildup of harmful plaque above and below the gum line. When not removed, plaque leads to bacterial growth that attacks gum tissue, making it inflamed and sensitive.

Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible with consistent brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings every six months. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe, irreversible condition.

For advanced cases, our periodontist in Sherman offers specialized treatments such as scaling and root planing. These periodontal treatments are designed to deep clean and manage chronic gum conditions.

2. Adjusting to a New Flossing Routine

Starting a new flossing routine can sometimes lead to bleeding gums if you weren’t previously flossing regularly. While it’s great to adopt this habit, it’s essential to floss gently. Being too rough can cause damage similar to brushing too hard.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to proper flossing:

• Cut about 18-24 inches of floss.
• Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving 1-2 inches for use.
• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers and gently slide it between your teeth.
• Move the floss up and down against each side of the tooth, curving it into a “C” shape around the base of the tooth.
• Avoid forcing the floss into your gums to prevent scratching or bruising.
• Repeat until you’ve flossed between all teeth and use a clean section of floss each time.

3. Ill-Fitting Dentures

If your dentures don’t fit properly, they can cause gum irritation and bleeding. This is often due to dentures being too tight or shifting in your mouth.

If you’re struggling with denture fit issues, our periodontist in Sherman can discuss alternatives like dental implants. Implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable and comfortable fit. We also offer adjustments to existing dentures to improve comfort and reduce gum irritation.

4. Health Conditions and Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy can lead to swollen and bleeding gums due to hormonal changes that affect the body’s response to bacteria. Women experiencing this should maintain diligent oral care with fluoride toothpaste and regular flossing.

Certain health conditions, such as blood clotting disorders or leukemia, can also cause bleeding gums. If you have such conditions, it’s crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene and consult both your primary doctor and our periodontist in Sherman for tailored advice.

Don’t Ignore Bleeding Gums – Seek Professional Help

It’s natural to feel embarrassed about bleeding gums, but seeking help from our experts at Peppermint Dental & Orthodontics can prevent issues from worsening. We’re here to assist you in addressing any oral health concerns and restoring your smile.

Call Peppermint Dental & Orthodontics Sherman today at +1 903-686-1897 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our gum disease treatments by visiting our website.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing bleeding gums or other oral health issues, it’s essential to seek professional help. Our team at Peppermint Dental & Orthodontics is here to guide you through effective treatments and help you achieve optimal gum health. Schedule a consultation with us today to address your concerns and improve your oral well-being.

**Disclaimer: This content should not be considered medical advice and does not imply a doctor-patient relationship.