Bleeding While Flossing: A Sign of Gum Disease?

Bleeding gums may not seem like a cause for concern, but this can actually indicate a problem with your oral health, especially gum disease. 

The Goodman Dental Center team can solve all of your oral health needs, no matter what’s causing your bleeding gums. Brian Goodman, DDS, and Tanner Goodman, DMD, offer the most advanced dental procedures with a gentle approach, so you’ll be guaranteed a comfortable dental appointment every time. They have these insights into why you shouldn’t ignore bleeding gums while flossing or brushing.

Why your periodontal health matters

Periodontal health refers to the state of your gums and bones that support your teeth. Having healthy gums plays a key role in your oral health. Without this strong foundation, your teeth can’t securely anchor themselves in place.

Unfortunately, several things can increase your risk of gum disease, but the most common — and completely controllable one — is poor oral hygiene. When you take care of your gums, your gums can support your teeth. And when your teeth are supported, you can chew, speak, and flash a great smile. 

The risks of ignoring bleeding gums

It can be easy to ignore bleeding gums early on, especially if they only bleed slightly as you go about brushing and flossing. However, gingivitis — the precursor to full-blown periodontal disease — begins when the gum tissue at the base of your teeth gets inflamed. 

When gum disease progresses to a more severe stage, you can develop periodontitis. This serious infection occurs when you have deep pockets filled with bacteria between your teeth and gums. If left untreated, the soft tissue damage can worsen, and your bone tissue can get ravaged, which can put you at risk for tooth loss. 

Aside from increasing your chances of tooth loss, your oral health can significantly impact your immune system and overall health. In fact, living with periodontitis can lead to:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke

These serious conditions can reduce your quality of life and even shorten it. Fortunately, the dentists at Goodman Dental Center offer multiple treatments, so you can nip this problem in the bud and save your oral and overall health. 

Treating gingivitis and gum disease

As with nearly every oral health challenge, effective treatment requires teamwork by you and your dentist. The dentists at Goodman Dental Center successfully treat gingivitis with a combination of treatments known as scaling and root planing. 

When you have scaling, they remove plaque from your tooth surfaces and beneath your gums. 

With root planing, they address gum disease by smoothing the roots of your teeth, so they can reattach to your gums. This approach essentially gives your teeth and gums a new lease on life. 

Your dentist may also recommend:

• Removing plaque and tartar with a laser
• Special antibacterial mouthwashes
• Antiseptic chips
• Bone and tissue grafts
• Flap surgery

Fortunately, you can avoid this highly treatable disease by practicing good, consistent oral hygiene and scheduling an appointment if you notice bleeding after brushing or flossing. Our team is ready to provide you with the highest level of care if you show signs of gingivitis or gum disease.

If you have bleeding gums, we can help put a stop to it and get your oral health on the right track. To learn more, book an appointment over the phone with Goodman Dental Center today.