If you spot blood in the sink after brushing your teeth or flossing, you might have the beginnings of gum disease. Dr. Nishan Halim, a dentist in Washington, DC, offers several treatment options for patients with gum disease. Here, he shares why it’s important to speak to a dental professional if you notice bleeding gums.
Gum disease is more common than you think
Nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 experience periodontitis, more commonly known as gum disease. Since the disease is often not painful, many patients do not know they have it. An early symptom of gum disease is gingivitis, the technical term for bleeding gums. This is often the most noticeable symptom, but other signifiers of gum disease include:
- Swollen or tender gums
- Gums pulled away from teeth
- Bad breath
- Loose or moving teeth
Regular brushing and flossing habits, at least twice a day, can prevent gingivitis and the progression of gum disease. Bleeding gums could also be caused by a change in brushing or flossing routine, pregnancy, or a medication side effect. To ensure the bleeding does not stem from underlying inflammation that could lead to advanced gum disease, you should make an appointment with your dentist. It is easier to treat gingivitis before gum disease becomes more advanced, so early diagnosis is preferable. Dr. Halim offers several treatment options for patients with varying levels of periodontal disease.
Unhealthy gums can hurt your smile
Gums hold your teeth in place and protect the roots of your teeth from decay. If your gums are swollen, bleeding, or otherwise unhealthy, they cannot function as they are meant to, and the health of your teeth could be at risk. Possibilities of loose or crooked teeth increase for patients with advanced gum disease, along with a higher chance of infection. To avoid future cosmetic damage to teeth that can lead to costly dental procedures, it is best to seek early advisement from your dental professional if you are experiencing bleeding gums. Your smile is a major part of who you are, and maintaining healthy gums can keep you unafraid to smile with confidence.
Untreated gum disease can affect overall health
Gum disease could potentially affect your health in other body systems beyond your mouth. Some research suggests patients with periodontal diseases have a higher risk of suffering a stroke or developing diabetes. Therefore, brushing your teeth and flossing twice daily to prevent gum disease promotes overall well-being. Bleeding gums could point to the early stages of gum disease, so if your gums are bleeding, it’s important to speak to a dentist about your symptoms as soon as possible.
Schedule an appointment today
Whether you’re concerned about gum disease or just looking for a qualified dentist in Washington, DC, request an appointment with Dr. Halim on our website. You can also reach us by phone at 202.318.4113. Dr. Halim offers various treatments related to general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. We are happy to address any dental concerns for current and prospective patients near Capitol Hill.