What Causes Bleeding Gums?

Reddish stains on your toothbrush are a likely indicator of sensitive gums. 

When your gums become sensitive and bleed from regular brushing, it could be a form of gum disease called gingivitis. This is an inflammation of your gums that can lead to other, worse oral problems, like periodontal disease, gum abscesses, or loss of teeth. 

Residents of Parkmerced, West Portal, and the Outer Sunset areas of San Francisco who regularly encounter bleeding gums when brushing can get exceptional dental care to treat gum problems from Dr. Nataly Vilderman

Dr. Vilderman and her talented team can help you reverse the effects of gingivitis or other forms of gum disease with state-of-the-art dentistry, including targeted gum rejuvenation

How did I get bleeding gums and gingivitis?

Gingivitis is typically a result of the buildup of plaque around your gums. This hardened bacterial film actually destroys gum tissue over time. 

To prevent this from happening, you should practice good oral hygiene: brush your teeth correctly at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Additionally, regular dental cleanings and checkups from Dr. Vilderman can help you maintain excellent dental health and avoid serious oral problems. 

Other factors can cause your gums to become inflamed and invite gingivitis, so avoid these practices or factors if possible: 

Forceful brushing habits

Using a hard toothbrush or brushing too hard can irritate your gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed. Irritated and inflamed gum tissue can recede and allow bacteria to reach deeper into your gumline, impacting teeth and further causing oral problems.  

Smoking 

If you smoke, you’re more susceptible to gingivitis. Any efforts you can make to quit smoking, even professional cessation programs, are best for your oral and overall health.  

Medications

Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding gums. If you’re prescribed blood thinners, for example, your gums can bleed easily. 

Speak with Dr. Vilderman about how to adjust your brushing habits and toothbrush type to prevent bleeding gums. You may also want to review your medications with her to determine if other prescriptions may put you at risk.  

Poor-fitting dental appliances

Dentures or partial dentures that become loose or do not fit properly can cause your gums to become irritated and bleed. Dr. Vilderman can help you get better-fitting dentures or other dental appliances.  

Age and genetic factors

As you grow older, your risk for gingivitis increases. Genetics also contribute to a higher risk. If you have close family members who have battled this dental problem, you’re likely to develop it as well. 

What can I do about gingivitis?

Dr. Vilderman and her talented dental team offer the most advanced treatments to eliminate and prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease. She commonly uses the revolutionary BIOLASE® WaterLase Laser Dentistry™ technology to remove diseased gum tissue and clean the area affecting the gums. 

Other treatments may include dental rinses and professional cleanings. 

When severe cases of periodontal disease require surgery, Dr. Vilderman uses a revolutionary new technique of periodontal surgery called the pinhole technique. 

This procedure is minimally invasive and allows for a much quicker recovery time than standard periodontal surgery. This technique is scalpel-free and requires no incisions, yet produces exceptional results. 

Do you suffer from bleeding gums? Now is the time to stop gingivitis and other forms of gum disease from developing. Call the San Francisco dental office of Dr. Nataly Vilderman at 415-665-7800 or request an appointment online today.

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