At Coastal General Dentistry, we know that seeing blood when you brush or floss can be worrying. Bleeding gums are the first sign of gum disease, a common but treatable infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth. The good news is that with early care from our Virginia Beach dentists, you can manage and even reverse gum disease. Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley are here to provide the comfortable, effective treatment you need to restore your gum health.
Signs of Bleeding Gums & Disease
Gum disease often starts quietly, but your body sends clear signals. Paying attention to these signs can help you get care before the problem becomes more serious. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to give us a call:
- Bleeding gums during or after brushing and flossing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums that are painful to the touch
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
- Gums that are pulling away from your teeth, making teeth look longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite or how your teeth fit together
- Pus between your teeth and gums
Contact our Virginia Beach office as soon as you notice a change in your gums. Early, preventative care can stop gum disease in its tracks and help you avoid expensive treatments later. Simple treatments like routine professional cleanings are your best defense.
Treating Bleeding Gums in Virginia Beach, VA
Your treatment starts with a thorough exam. Dr. Sinclair and Dr. Reichley will gently check your gums for pockets. Pockets are spaces that form when gums pull away from teeth. We may also take digital X-rays to see the health of the bone underneath your gums. This helps us create a personalized plan just for you.
The goal of treatment is to remove the source of the infection. We can remove harmful bacteria and tartar that build up on your teeth, especially below the gumline.
Professional Dental Cleanings & Deep Cleanings
For early gum disease (gingivitis), a professional dental cleaning is often all that’s needed. Our hygienist will carefully remove all the plaque and tartar from above and below your gumline. We’ll also give you tips on improving your daily brushing and flossing to keep your gums healthy at home.
If gum disease has progressed, you may need a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. This is not a routine cleaning. We use gentle techniques to deeply clean the root surfaces of your teeth, smoothing them out so your gums can heal and reattach. Your comfort is our priority, and we can ensure you are completely numb during this procedure.
Ongoing Care & Surgical Treatments
Gum disease is often a chronic condition, like high blood pressure. After a deep cleaning, you may need to visit us more often for special cleanings called periodontal maintenance; usually every 3 or 4 months. These visits can keep the disease under control and protect your smile.
In more advanced cases where deep cleaning isn’t enough, you might need a referral to a trusted specialist, a periodontist. They can perform minor gum surgeries to reduce pockets and repair damaged bone and gum tissue.
Patient Review
Bleeding Gums FAQs
Are bleeding gums normal?
No, bleeding gums are not normal. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed when brushing and flossing. Bleeding is a classic sign of inflammation caused by early gum disease. Think of it as a warning light on your car’s dashboard. It’s telling you something needs attention!
Can gum disease be cured?
The earliest stage, gingivitis, is completely reversible with professional cleaning and good home care. The more advanced stage, periodontitis, can’t be “cured” but you can successfully manage and control it. With consistent professional care and excellent oral hygiene at home, you can stop the disease from progressing and keep your teeth healthy.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Yes, research shows strong connections. The inflammation from gum disease can affect your whole body. It’s linked to an increased risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and respiratory issues. Taking care of your gums is an important part of taking care of your overall health.
What causes bleeding gums?
The main cause is plaque that constantly forms on your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed daily by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Only a dental professional can remove tartar. Tartar at the gumline leads to infection and inflammation. Smoking, genetics, diabetes, and certain medications can also increase your risk.
Will I lose my teeth if I have gum disease?
Not necessarily. Tooth loss is a possible result of untreated, advanced gum disease. The infection destroys the bone that holds your teeth in place. The goal of our treatment is to stop the disease process before it causes this damage. By seeking treatment and following your maintenance plan, you can keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.
How can I prevent gum disease at home?
The best prevention is a consistent daily routine:
- Brush your teeth gently for two minutes, twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush along your gumline.
- Floss thoroughly once a day to remove plaque between teeth.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash if recommended by your dentist.
- See us regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Protect Your Gums and Your Health Today
Don’t ignore bleeding gums. Early treatment is the simplest, most effective way to protect your smile. Call Coastal General Dentistry in Virginia Beach at 757-216-9914 or schedule your appointment online.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about your gum health. We’re here to provide the personalized care you deserve.