Don’t Ignore Bleeding Gums—Restore Your Health with Expert Care
Are you noticing blood after brushing or flossing? Bleeding gums are a warning sign your oral health needs attention. Left untreated, gum irritation can quickly progress to gum disease—one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults in Laurel, MD. At Laurel Smiles Dental Care, our experienced team provides effective, patient-focused solutions to stop bleeding gums and protect your smile for life.
Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
Gum bleeding is common, but it isn’t normal. The most frequent cause is plaque buildup along the gum line. If not professionally removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which leads to inflamed gums and the first stage of gum disease. Other factors—such as brushing too hard, improper flossing, hormonal changes, vitamin deficiencies, or nighttime teeth grinding—can also make your gums more vulnerable.
Common causes include:
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Brushing with too much pressure or a hard-bristled brush
- Inconsistent flossing or poor technique
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, puberty, menopause)
- Certain medications or underlying health issues
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism)
If your gums bleed regularly, especially with light brushing or flossing, it’s time to schedule an evaluation.
Why Choose Laurel Smiles Dental Care?
- Proven Results: Hundreds of Laurel-area patients trust us to restore their gum health—see what our patients say Contact Us.
- Comprehensive Treatment: From thorough cleanings to advanced periodontal therapy, we offer personalized solutions for every stage of gum disease.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Early intervention means more comfortable, cost-effective
- Local Experts: Conveniently located on Cherry Lane Ct, our team understands the unique needs of Laurel, MD
Our Bleeding Gums Treatments
We tailor your care based on the causes and severity of your symptoms:
- Professional Dental Cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar in areas home care can’t
- Scaling & Root Planing: Deep cleaning below the gum line to halt disease progression and encourage healing.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Targets infection and supports healthy gum
- Custom Nightguards: Protect against nighttime grinding and further gum
- Bite Adjustment: Ensures teeth meet properly to minimize gum
If caught early, bleeding gums can be reversed with simple professional care and home habit changes. More advanced gum disease may require additional therapies, but our team will guide you every step of the way.
What Happens If I Ignore Bleeding Gums?
Even mild bleeding is your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Ignoring the signs can lead to:
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession and sensitivity
- Tooth mobility or loss
- Increased risk for other health issues
The sooner you act, the easier and more affordable your treatment will be.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Smile Today
Most patients who visit us for bleeding gums notice a significant improvement after their first professional cleaning and guidance on home care. We recommend checkups every six months to prevent issues from returning.
Ready to stop worrying about bleeding gums? Request an Appointment or call us at 301-490-7007 to schedule your visit at our Laurel, MD office.
Laurel Smiles Dental Care
14440 Cherry Lane Ct Suite 209, Laurel, MD 20707
Your comfort and safety are our priority. No surprise fees—your recommended treatment plan will be clearly explained before we begin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bleeding Gums and Care
If your gums are bleeding randomly and consistently or upon light contact, it is a good idea to schedule a visit to your dentist. Gum bleeding can be a sign of gum disease, which, if caught early, we can reverse it with treatment.
How long is it safe to have bleeding gums before seeking help?If your gums are bleeding for more than a week or two—especially if the bleeding occurs frequently or without clear cause—it’s important to have them examined by a dental professional. While minor gum irritation can sometimes resolve on its own, ongoing or spontaneous bleeding could signal underlying gum disease or another health issue that requires timely treatment. Delaying care may allow the inflammation to worsen, increasing your risk of tooth and bone loss. The safest course of action is to reach out to your dentist if gum bleeding persists beyond two weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, tenderness, or consistent bad breath. Early diagnosis and intervention will help prevent more serious complications.
What is the treatment for gum bleeding?The most common at-home treatment for bleeding gums is a saltwater rinse. We prefer that the water is warm to soothe any irritation. The salt draws out bacteria that may cause infection.
Can stress cause bleeding gums?Stress is a common cause of bleeding gums. Stress takes a large toll on the body and inhibits the bodyu2019s ability to fight infections. This increases patients risk for inflammation and bleeding gums.
Is it normal for gums to bleed while flossing?Itu2019s common for gums to bleed mildly when you first start flossing, especially if you are inconsistent. In this case, the bleeding is likely the result of plaque buildup. However, consistent bleeding during flossing isnu2019t normal and could indicate gingivitis. If the bleeding persists, scheduling a dental visit for a check-up is a good idea.
Can dry mouth cause bleeding gums?Dry mouth isnu2019t a direct cause of bleeding gums. However, it can contribute to the conditions that lead to bleeding. Saliva helps clean your mouth and fight bacteria. As a result, youu2019re at a higher risk for gum disease if you donu2019t have enough of it. This can cause gums to bleed. To manage dry mouth, drink plenty of water. Also, avoid tobacco and practice good oral hygiene. Please donu2019t hesitate to contact our office for advice and treatment if dry mouth or bleeding gums continue.
Which medications can increase the risk of bleeding gums?Several medications can make your gums more prone to bleeding. Blood thinnersu2014such as warfarin, aspirin, and clopidogrelu2014are among the most common culprits, as they reduce your bloodu2019s ability to clot. Certain anti-seizure medications, some high blood pressure drugs, and even over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also play a role. If youu2019re taking any of these or other prescription medicines, be sure to let your dentist know during your visit. This information helps us tailor both your care and your treatment recommendations.
Can you have periodontal disease without bleeding gums?Yes, itu2019s possible to have periodontal disease without experiencing bleeding gums. Bleeding gums is a common symptom of gum disease in its early stages (gingivitis). However, not everyone will experience this symptom. Periodontal disease symptoms can include gum recession, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. The disease can also change the way teeth fit together. Some patients might not notice any symptoms of periodontal disease in its early stages.
When might a dentist refer you to another medical professional for bleeding gums?In some cases, bleeding gums may point to health concerns beyond your mouth. If we notice your gum bleeding is not linked to typical dental issuesu2014such as gum disease or poor oral hygieneu2014but instead may be connected to a systemic condition like a blood disorder (e.g., leukemia or clotting issues), vitamin deficiencies, or certain medications, weu2019ll recommend you see your physician or a relevant specialist. This collaborative approach ensures you get the care you need, whether your symptoms start in the mouth or elsewhere in the body.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR BLEEDING GUMS IN LAUREL, MD
If you notice your gums bleeding when you brush, this is a clear sign of a problem. Bleeding gums are caused by plaque buildup that is not properly removed; this is a clear sign that it’s time to make your next dental appointment. Contact our office today at 301-490-7007 to book a dentist appointment or request an appointment online.