Service
Gum Disease Therapy
Gum Disease Therapy For Periodontal Diseases
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you’re not alone. Many adults in Canada currently have some form of this disease. Bleeding gums are caused by inadequate plaque removal. Plaque contains germs that attack the healthy tissue around the teeth. If plaque build-up occurs, gums become inflamed and irritated, which may cause them to bleed when brushing or flossing. This is called Gingivitis and is the first stage of gum disease.
Gingivitis is usually a painless condition and bleeding gums may be the only symptom. Some other signs may include swollen, red or tender gums; persistent bad breath or taste; loose teeth; and a change in the way your teeth fit when you bite. At this stage, gum disease can be treated and completely reversed. So, it is important not to ignore your bleeding gums.
Other less common causes of bleeding gums include lack of Vitamin C, lack of Vitamin K, inflamed gums due to pregnancy, Thrombocytopenia, Hemophilia and Scurvy.
Periodontitis Can Cause Tooth And Bone Loss
Plaque that is not removed will eventually cause the gums to separate and recede from the teeth. Once the gum recession occurs, pockets or gaps can form between the teeth and gums. Harmful bacteria and germs can get trapped inside these pockets, attacking the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Plaque will eventually harden into tartar if not removed by a professional hygienist at Horizon Family Dentistry.
Left untreated, gingivitis progresses into the more serious condition called Periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause tooth and bone loss. Other serious problems patients may experience include painful abscesses, drifting of the teeth which may interfere with chewing, and unsightly lengthening of the teeth with exposure of the roots. Periodontitis (or gum disease) is one of the leading causes of bleeding gums. Gum disease has been linked to more serious conditions including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer. and an increased chance for complications during pregnancy. Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association between gum disease and these other conditions.
Call us to know more about our Gum Disease Therapy treatment.
What Are The Risk Factors for Gum Disease?
Age:
The incidence of gum disease increases with age. 50% of adults 30 years or older and 70% of those over 65 have gum disease.
Stress:
Stress is linked to many serious conditions, including periodontal disease.
Medications:
Some prescription medications can increase your risk of gum disease such as anti-depressants, blood thinners, certain heart medications and oral contraceptives.
Genetics:
Some of us are just predisposed to get gum disease. If you think this applies to you, your dentist can perform a simple genetic test to determine your risk.
Smoking:
Smokers have twice the risk of gum disease as compared to non-smokers. Treatments for gum disease are also less effective for those who regularly use tobacco.
Other risk factors:
Poor oral hygiene
Poor nutrition
Clenching or grinding teeth
How Can I Get my Gums to Stop Bleeding?
Book an appointment at Horizon Family Dentistry at the first sign of trouble for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. Our Lindsay Dentists provide Gum Disease Therapy and will prescribe a very aggressive dental care regimen that should get your gums healthy again.
Here is what you can do to prevent and treat bleeding gums:
Brush after each meal and before bedtime.
Use a gentle fluoride toothpaste, with no Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.
Clean in between your teeth with floss at least 2 times per day.
Rinse with mouthwash after you brush.
See our Lindsay dentists at least once every six months for regular cleanings and check-ups.
Book A New Patient Exam
It all starts with a phone call at Horizon Family Dentistry. When you call our Lindsay Dental Clinic, our friendly staff will help you select an appointment time that is convenient for you and your family.
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40 Cambridge St. South
Lindsay, ON K9V 3B8
705-702-4689
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Friday: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed