Bleeding Gums Treatment in Washington D.C. & Alexandria, VA
Treat Bleeding Gums Disease by Requesting an Appointment Right Now!
Gums that bleed easily and frequently (such as when eating or when being brushed and flossed) could be an indication of several different situations, including:
- Medication use (certain medications can cause gums to bleed)
- Pregnancy (for some, bleeding gums appear in the early stages of pregnancy)
- Gum disease (an early sign of gingivitis is bleeding gums)
Certain prescription and over the counter medications can cause gums to bleed. The most common culprits are blood pressure medications, blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, aspirin, and many prescribed medications), and hormonal birth control.
Bleeding gums during pregnancy is not uncommon. Hormonal changes can make the gums sensitive, and slight bleeding may occur when brushing or flossing. However, checking for gum disease is a good idea, especially if the bleeding doesn’t stop after the pregnancy is concluded.
The most common cause of bleeding gums remains gum disease, which – if caught early – is treatable and reversible. Patients who notice that their gums are bleeding frequently or with little provocation should see their periodontist for a gum disease check, as there may be an infection.
Early Diagnosis is Key
Factors that put an individual at risk for gum disease also overlap with other causes of bleeding gums. If any of the following are present, and gums are bleeding, gum disease should not be ruled out unless by a periodontist:
Diabetics have a difficult time fighting off infections, and periodontal disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. Diabetics should take extra care with their oral hygiene, as should those at risk for diabetes or who are pre-diabetic.
- Hormonal Changes
- Tobacco Use
- Poorly Fitting Dental Appliances
- Poor Oral Hygiene
Preterm Delivery and Low Birth Weight Babies
Some research shows a link between gingivitis and a higher risk of preterm delivery and low birth weight babies. Women who are pregnant should be aware of the dangers of periodontal disease.
Other conditions which may be connected to gum disease include:
- Head and Neck Cancer
- Respiratory problems
- Kidney Disease
Catching gum disease in its early stages can prevent gum recession, tooth loss, and bone loss. Contact us for an appointment at our Washington D.C. or Alexandria, VA offices.
Periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky, Dr. Michael Hoge, and the Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry team offer a range of periodontal treatment options to the Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. area, including residents seeking a periodontist in Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Chevy Chase, Falls Church, Fairfax, and Springfield. Please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zalewsky or Dr. Hoge, or request your appointment online.