Month: September 2022

It’s not uncommon for your gums to bleed a little when you brush or floss your teeth. This mostly happens when you have not flossed in a while and you carefully floss between all your teeth. Although it is somewhat common to see your gums bleed, you should monitor how much they are bleeding and tell your dentist if it is concerning you.

That being said, it’s important to see your dentist if your gums are bleeding frequently or excessively, as this could be a sign of a more serious problem. If you have any other symptoms of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or tender gums; receding gums; bad breath; or loose teeth, be sure to see your dentist right away.

Treating periodontal disease early is important to prevent it from becoming more severe, which can lead to tooth loss. If you have any concerns about your gum health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

Is It Normal For Your Gums To Bleed When Flossing and Brushing?

It is somewhat normal to see your gums bleed a little bit when you floss your teeth for the first time in a while. This doesn’t mean that you should not pay attention to the fact that your gums are bleeding.

Although it is not harmful in many cases to see a few drops of blood when you are flossing, this is a tell tale sign that you aren’t flossing enough. Once you start flossing on a regular basis, your gums will not bleed when you floss or brush.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

There are a number of reasons why your gums may bleed, but the most common cause is gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Other causes of bleeding gums include:

• Hormonal changes (such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause)
• Certain medications (such as blood thinners or oral contraceptives)
• Vitamin C deficiency
• Brushing too hard
• Trauma to the gums (from rough flossing or brushing)

If you are concerned about your gum health, be sure to talk to your dentist. They will be able to determine the cause of your bleeding gums and recommend the best course of treatment.

When Should You Be Concerned About Your Gums Bleeding?

You should be concerned if your gums are bleeding excessively and if there is a lot of pain when you floss between your teeth. If you have any other symptoms of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or tender gums; receding gums; bad breath; or loose teeth, you should see your dentist right away.

Treating periodontal disease early is important to prevent it from becoming more severe and causing tooth loss. If you have any concerns about your gum health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

How to Make Your Gums Stop Bleeding?

The treatment for bleeding gums will depend on the underlying cause. If your gums are bleeding because of gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing) to remove the plaque and tartar buildup beneath your gum line. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the health of your gums.

If your gums are bleeding for another reason, such as hormonal changes or certain medications, your dentist will work with you to determine the best course of treatment.

Bleeding gums can be a sign of a more serious problem, so it’s important to see your dentist if your gums are bleeding frequently or excessively. If you have any other symptoms of periodontal disease, such as red, swollen, or tender gums; receding gums; bad breath; or loose teeth, be sure to see your dentist right away.

What are the symptoms of Gum Disease?

If you have experienced excessive gum bleeding, it is important to look for other signs of gum disease. The symptoms of gum disease include:

• Bleeding gums
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Receding gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth

If you have any of these symptoms, be sure to see your dentist right away. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if it is not treated early. If you do not have any of these other symptoms, it is most likely that you just haven’t flossed in a while and your gums aren’t used to the flossing.

Treating periodontal disease early is important to prevent it from becoming more severe, which can lead to tooth loss. If you have any concerns about your gum health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

Contact Lane And Associates Today!

If you are experiencing bleeding gums and you think that your gums are bleeding more than what they should, get in contact with a dentist if you do not already have a regular practice you visit. Lane and Associates Family Dentistry has multiple locations throughout North Carolina and can help you with all of your dental needs. We offer a variety of services, such as teeth cleanings, dental implants, and more. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that affects the gums and bone around the teeth. Gum disease begins with gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and chronic health conditions.

There are four stages of gum disease: gingivitis, early periodontitis, moderate periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove.

Gingivitis can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.

Early Periodontitis

Early periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease. It is characterized by bone loss around the teeth. Early periodontitis can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Early periodontitis can be treated with a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. A deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Root planing is a procedure that smoothes the roots of the teeth to prevent bacteria from attaching to them.

Moderate Periodontitis

Moderate periodontitis is the third stage of gum disease. It is characterized by deeper pockets around the teeth and further bone loss. Moderate periodontitis typically affects people between the ages of 30 and 50.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis is the most severe stage of gum disease. It is characterized by deep pockets around the teeth, extensive bone loss, and gum recession.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone around your teeth. Periodontitis occurs when plaque and tartar are not removed from your teeth, causing the gums to become inflamed. The inflammation eventually leads to periodontitis, which can destroy the bone and soft tissue around your teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can cause tooth loss.

If you think you may have gum disease, it is important to see a dentist for an evaluation. Gum disease is treatable in its early stages. However, it is important to catch it early to prevent it from progressing to the more severe stages.

See your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams. brush twice a day and floss daily. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent dental visits, special mouthwashes, or deep cleanings.

What are the Symptoms of the Gum Disease Stages?

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can progress to affect the bone supporting the teeth. It is a common condition in adults, and its incidence increases with age. Gum disease is usually caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque gradually turns into tartar (calculus), which is harder to remove. If tartar is not removed, it can irritate and inflame the gums, causing gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.

All stages of periodontist have the symptoms of gingivitis, including red, swollen, and bleeding gums. However, as periodontitis progresses, the symptoms become more severe. The gums may begin to recede (pull away) from the teeth, and deep pockets may form between the gum and tooth. These pockets become filled with plaque and tartar, which can further damage the gums and bone. As periodontitis progresses, the teeth may become loose and eventually may fall out.

What Treatments are Available for Gum Disease?

Just like any other disease, gum disease has different stages. In its earliest stage, gingivitis, the gums become inflamed and may bleed when brushed. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. Periodontitis destroys the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth, and can eventually lead to tooth loss.

There are a number of different treatment options available for gum disease, depending on how severe it is. In its early stages, gingivitis can often be reversed with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings. More advanced forms of gum disease may require more aggressive treatment, such as scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning that removes tartar and bacteria below the gum line), antibiotics, or surgery.

How to Prevent Gum Disease?

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing your teeth every day, and seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. If you have any risk factors for gum disease (such as diabetes or a family history of the condition), it’s important to be extra diligent about taking care of your teeth.

If you think you may have gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible so that it can be diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss and much worse health conditions, so don’t delay in getting the help you need.

Contact Lane and Associates Today!

If you’re concerned about gum disease or would like to learn more about how to prevent it, contact Lane and Associates today. Our team of skilled dental professionals will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Fill out a contact form on our website or call the office location most convenient to you to schedule an appointment.

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to bleeding, swelling, and other issues. Periodontal disease is a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. While both conditions are serious, periodontal disease is more likely to cause tooth loss. Here’s a look at the differences between gingivitis and periodontal disease.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque can irritate the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily.

Gingivitis is a reversible condition. With proper oral hygiene, it can be cleared up in a matter of weeks. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a more serious form of gum disease. It is caused by plaque that has not been removed and has begun to damage the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. It is also associated with an increased risk of other health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Treatment for Gingivitis vs Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis can be treated with a good oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. If gingivitis does not improve with these measures, a dentist may recommend a professional cleaning.

Periodontal disease requires more aggressive treatment. A dentist may recommend a deep cleaning, in which plaque and tartar are removed from below the gum line. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage caused by periodontal disease.

Prevention of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

The best way to prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. It is also important to see a dentist regularly for professional cleanings.

If you have gingivitis or periodontal disease, it is important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for treatment. With proper care, you can prevent the progression of gum disease and keep your teeth healthy.

Which Condition is Worse?

While both gingivitis and periodontal disease are serious, periodontal disease is more likely to cause tooth loss. This is why it is important to see a dentist regularly and to practice good oral hygiene. Gingivitis is actually the predecessor to periodontal disease. Once you let gingivitis get out of control, it will develop into periodontal disease. Gingivitis is the milder form of periodontal disease, so it stands to reason that periodontal disease is the worse of the two. If you have either gingivitis or periodontal disease, be sure to see your dentist as soon as possible for treatment.

Contact Lane and Associates Family Dentistry

We have locations throughout North Carolina, including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Garner, Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest. If you believe that you have some form of gum disease, schedule an appointment with one of our dentists today. We can help you determine if you have gingivitis or periodontal disease and develop a treatment plan to keep your smile healthy.

It’s possible that your gingivitis may cause your breath to smell bad. This is because the bacteria that cause gingivitis can release foul-smelling chemicals. If you have gingivitis, be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove the bacteria and help prevent bad breath.

What Does Gingivitis Smell Like?

Gingivitis can cause your breath to smell like sulfur or rotten eggs. This is because of the bacteria in your mouth releasing chemicals that smells like these things. If you have gingivitis, you may also notice that your gingiva, or gums, are red and swollen. You may also bleed when you brush or floss your teeth.

Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease and is often reversible with good oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, it can progress to more serious forms of periodontal disease. If you have any of these symptoms, be sure to see your dentist so that they can diagnose and treat the problem.

Can Other People Smell Gingivitis?

Yes, other people can sometimes smell gingivitis. The bacteria that cause gingivitis produce foul-smelling chemicals, which can lead to bad breath, or halitosis. This unpleasant odor can be noticeable to others, especially if the gingivitis is severe or left untreated.

What Does Periodontitis Smell Like?

Periodontitis, a more advanced stage of gum disease that follows gingivitis, can also cause bad breath. The smell is often described as worse than that of gingivitis, sometimes resembling rotting meat or a metallic odor. This is due to the increased bacteria and infection present in the mouth as the disease progresses.

How Do You Know if Gingivitis Is Bad?

Gingivitis is considered bad when it leads to noticeable symptoms that affect your daily life. Signs that your gingivitis may be severe include:

• Persistent Bad Breath: If you have a constant bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing and flossing, it may be a sign of severe gingivitis.
• Red, Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm. Red and swollen gums are a sign of inflammation.
• Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed easily when you brush or floss, this is a common sign of gingivitis.
• Tender or Painful Gums: Gums that are sore or painful to the touch can indicate a more serious level of gingivitis.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist for an evaluation and treatment plan.

How Can You Treat Gingivitis?

Treating gingivitis involves maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly. Here are some steps to help treat and prevent gingivitis:

1. Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day.
2. Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline.
3. Use Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth.
4. Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
5. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks.

By following these steps, you can help reverse gingivitis and prevent it from progressing to more serious gum disease.

Can You Get Rid of Gingivitis Smell?

One of the best ways to get rid of bad breath caused by gingivitis is to reverse the condition by brushing and flossing regularly. This will remove the bacteria from your mouth and help to reduce the amount of foul-smelling chemicals. You may also want to use a mouthwash to help freshen your breath.

If you have gingivitis, be sure to see your dentist so that they can diagnose and treat the problem. In some cases, you may need to have a professional cleaning to remove the tartar buildup on your teeth. You may also need to use a medicated mouthwash or toothpaste. If your gingivitis is severe, you may need to have surgery to correct the problem.

No one wants to have bad breath, but if you have gingivitis, it’s important to seek treatment so that the condition doesn’t progress to something more serious. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly, you can help keep gingivitis under control and keep your breath smelling fresh.

What Causes Gingivitis?

The primary cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. This means that you are not brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, or that you are not doing a good enough job when you do brush and floss. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums, making them red, swollen, and more likely to bleed.

Contact Lane and Associates

If you are experiencing bad breath and you believe that it is due to gingivitis, contact Lane and Associates. We can help you determine the cause of your bad breath and develop a treatment plan to improve your oral health. We have multiple offices located across the state of North Carolina.

Gums can recede for a number of reasons, including brushing too hard, gum disease, and aging. While it may not seem like a big deal, gum recession can actually lead to a number of problems, including tooth sensitivity and loss. So just how fast do gums recede?

The answer depends on the underlying cause. For example, if you brush too hard, your gums may recede over time. However, if you have gum disease, your gums can recede quite quickly. In some cases, they may even recede within a matter of weeks or months.

Of course, the rate at which your gums recede also depends on your age. As we age, our gums naturally begin to recede. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 12% of Americans over the age of 65 have some degree of gum recession.

How To Prevent Gums From Receding?

If you’re concerned about gum recession, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening. First, be sure to brush gently. Brushing too hard can actually damage your gums and lead to recession.

You should also see your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. This will help ensure that any early signs of gum disease are caught and treated before they become a problem.

Finally, if you smoke, quitting can stop your gums from receding. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, so quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral health.

If you’re already experiencing gum recession, there are treatments available to help restore your gums. However, it’s important to catch it early, so be sure to see your dentist if you notice any changes in your gum line.

The bottom line is that gum recession can be a serious problem, but it’s one that you can take steps to prevent. Be sure to brush gently, see your dentist regularly, and quit smoking if you want to keep your gums healthy.

Can Gums Recede Overnight?

No, gums do not typically recede overnight. Gum recession is usually a gradual process that occurs over time due to factors like poor oral hygiene, brushing too hard, gum disease, or even aging. However, certain aggressive forms of gum disease or trauma to the gums could potentially cause noticeable recession in a short period. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to catch any signs of gum recession early.

Do Gums Recede Easily?

Gums can recede relatively easily if they are not properly cared for. Brushing too hard, using a toothbrush with hard bristles, or poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum recession. Additionally, habits like smoking and chewing tobacco can increase the risk. Gum disease is another major factor that can cause gums to recede more quickly. Regular dental check-ups and proper brushing and flossing techniques are essential in preventing gum recession.

Can Receding Gums Grow Back?

Once gums have receded, they typically do not grow back on their own. However, there are treatments available that can help restore the gum line. Procedures like gum grafting can cover exposed roots and protect your teeth. It’s crucial to address the underlying cause of the gum recession to prevent further damage and maintain overall oral health.

At What Age Does Gum Recession Start?

Gum recession can start at any age, but it is more common as people get older. It’s estimated that a significant percentage of adults over the age of 40 experience some degree of gum recession. However, young people can also experience gum recession due to aggressive brushing, poor oral hygiene, or orthodontic treatments. Regular dental visits and good oral care routines are important at any age to help prevent gum recession.

How To Treat Gums That Have Already Receded?

If you already have gum recession, there are a few treatment options available. These include:

Gum grafting: This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and using it to cover the exposed root.

Flap surgery: This surgery involves lifting back the gum tissue and removing any tartar buildup. The tissue is then repositioned and sutured into place.

Pocket reduction: This surgery involves making small incisions in the gum tissue to remove any tartar buildup. The gum is then sutured into place.

While these procedures can be effective, they’re also invasive and can be quite costly. In some cases, your insurance may not even cover the cost of treatment.

Does Gingivitis Cause Gum Recession?

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to gum disease. While gingivitis doesn’t necessarily cause gum recession, it can increase your risk for developing the condition. That’s because gingivitis weakens the attachment between the gum and tooth, which can eventually lead to recession.

If you have gingivitis, it’s important to see your dentist so that the condition can be treated. Untreated gingivitis can eventually lead to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. Periodontitis can not only cause gum recession, but it can also lead to tooth loss.

Contact Lane and Associates Family Dentistry

If you notice that your gums are receding, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Gum recession can be a sign of gum disease, which is a serious condition that needs to be treated.

At Lane and Associates Family Dentistry, we offer a full range of dental services, including treatment for gum disease. We also offer a variety of preventative services, such as teeth cleanings and fluoride treatments, to help keep your smile healthy.