How do healthcare providers treat bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums treatment depends on the underlying cause. If bleeding gums are a result of gum disease, a dentist or periodontist (gum specialist) will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Common gum disease treatments include:
- Improved oral hygiene at home.
- Antibiotics.
- Tooth scaling and root planing (deep dental cleaning).
- Osseous surgery (to reduce the size of the pockets around your teeth).
- Laser periodontal surgery.
If you have bleeding gums but you don’t have gum disease, your healthcare provider will need to find out why your gums are bleeding. They may recommend testing to determine if you have diabetes, blood-clotting disorders, vitamin deficiencies or other underlying health conditions. Once you receive a diagnosis, your provider will recommend appropriate treatment.
How to stop bleeding gums at home
If you have bleeding gums that don’t improve within two weeks, you should schedule an appointment with a dentist. They can determine whether gum disease is the culprit.
In the meantime, here are some things you can try to stop bleeding gums at home:
- Brush two to three times a day.
- Floss once daily.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid smoking.
What happens if you ignore bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums can get worse over time if you ignore them, especially if gum disease is the culprit. Left untreated, gum disease erodes the tissue, ligaments and bone that support your teeth. This can lead to a continuing cycle of infection, bad breath and even tooth loss.
If another health issue causes bleeding gums, your symptoms may worsen as the underlying condition worsens. It’s best to see a healthcare provider so they can give you a proper diagnosis and begin any necessary treatment.
Can I prevent my gums from bleeding in the first place?
Yes, in many cases you can. To reduce your risk for bleeding due to gum disease, visit your dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene at home.
You can’t prevent bleeding gums due to some other causes, like hormone changes, blood-clotting disorders or leukemia.