Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth? If so, you are not alone: nearly sixty percent of people have experienced bleeding gums. There is no need to panic if you notice bleeding gums. However, it is important to remember that it is not normal and steps should be taken to prevent the progression of bleeding gums and possibly gum disease. At Lasting Smiles of Bethlehem, we offer a variety of dental services and treatments that address bleeding gums.
Bleeding gums can be the first warning sign of gum disease and should serve as an urgent reminder that your current oral health routine needs to be addressed.
Here at Lasting Smiles of Bethlehem family dentistry, we recommend following five steps to prevent your gums from bleeding:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, two times a day. Remember to use fluoride toothpaste to help remove plaque and protect your teeth. If plaque is not properly removed from your teeth, it can build up and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Make a healthy routine of brushing your teeth for two minutes, two times a day: once you wake up and before going to bed.
- Floss your teeth. Since a toothbrush cannot adequately get in between your teeth to remove food particles and plaque buildup, it is important to use floss. The American Dental Association recommends flossing your teeth at least once a day. It is important to select a set time to floss that works the best for you and stick to it! To make this a healthy habit, make flossing a routine first thing in the morning, while in the shower or before bedtime.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash. Mouthwash not only leaves you with fresh-smelling breath, but it also clears your mouth of debris and prevents plaque build-up on your gums, in between and on the surface of your teeth. Fluoride mouthwash kills bad bacteria in your mouth and offers an extra layer of protection for your teeth and gums throughout the day.
- Visit your dentist regularly. At Lasting Smiles of Bethlehem, we encourage all of our patients to visit Dr. Ruyak and his staff for regular cleanings and dental care. In order to keep your gums and teeth healthy, it is important to have an examination and teeth cleaning every six months. With that being said, if you experience bleeding gums over a prolonged period of time, do not wait for your next routine dental appointment to address these concerns. Give us a call right away at (610) 709-6937 or request an appointment online, so we can help you address and correct your bleeding gums.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet. A nutritious diet is not only important for bleeding gums, but also for overall good health. In order for your mouth to function properly, it is vital to fill our bodies with healthy food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is also important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these bad habits can negatively affect your teeth and gums. Healthy teeth are supported and nourished by healthy gums.
Lasting Smiles of Bethlehem offers a variety of dental services and treatments related to gum care. We specialize in this area because your gums are prone to various oral diseases that can cause prolonged illness and complications with your oral health. Periodontal maintenance, scaling and oral planning are some of the specialized gum services that your family dentistry in Bethlehem, PA offers. Periodontal maintenance is a series of specialized check-ups for patients that suffer from a history of dental (especially gum related) problems. Scaling and oral planning are non-surgical procedures that deep clean and replenish your gums and teeth. Whether you’re looking for a new family-friendly dentist in the Bethlehem, PA region or you are suffering from bleeding gums for a variety of reasons, it is time to contact Lasting Smiles of Bethlehem today to help achieve your healthiest and brightest smile!
