What Causes Gum Disease and Gum Infections?
Ultimately, gum disease is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar build up along the gumline, causing inflammation and a path for bacteria.
Bushing twice a day, flossing in the evening, and seeing a dentist every six months can help to prevent gum disease. While plaque can be removed at home, tartar can only be removed during a professional cleaning. You can also use antibacterial mouthwash, but this should never be used as a substitute for brushing or flossing.
Smoking can also contribute to the presence of gum disease. You are at twice the risk for gum disease if you smoke.
Health Conditions, Trauma, and Medications
Certain health conditions can contribute to or complicate gum disease as well. Diabetes, immune system disorders, and mouth injuries can all contribute to gum disease. Gum disease has also been linked to serious systematic medical conditions, like heart disease.
Certain medications can also contribute to gum disease, especially medications that cause dry mouth or are used to thin the blood. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy can contribute to bleeding gums as well, and you should speak with your doctor if this is the case for you.
Finally, vitamin deficiencies can also contribute, particularly vitamin C. If you think you may have a vitamin deficiency, speak with your doctor.
Emergency Gum Treatments at Absolute Dental in Carson City, NV
No matter what the cause of your swollen or bleeding gums, Absolute Dental in Carson City can help. We have both dentists and periodontists on staff, and no matter if you need a thorough cleaning or advanced treatment, we can provide you with the dental care you need.
Please note that we offer same-day emergency appointments.
Professional Assessment and Treatment Options
The first step is to assess your condition. All our visits include a comprehensive oral evaluation. Our dentists may use imaging scans, such as X-rays, to determine your condition, alongside visual inspection and infection assessment.
Next, we’ll likely provide a deep cleaning to remove all bacteria, plaque, and tartar. We can drain any abscesses you may have and offer antibiotic therapy. If we believe you may need advanced treatment, we will refer you to one of our periodontists.
Advanced Treatment When Needed
If your condition is sufficiently progressed, especially in the case of gum disease, we can offer advanced treatment. The most common advanced treatments are called scaling and root planing. These are advanced deep cleaning methods, performed under the care of a periodontist.
Alongside direct treatment, we can also help with long-term maintenance plans for your gums and teeth. When gum disease is sufficiently advanced, it often cannot be cured, only managed. This is why it is essential to see a dentist immediately when you experience any troubling signs.
How To Prevent and Stop Bleeding Gums
The best way to prevent bleeding gums is to keep a steady and thorough oral health routine. Brush twice per day, floss before bruising in the evening, and see a dentist every six months or as directed.
You may experience some light bleeding when flossing, especially when beginning a new flossing routine. This is normal, but if bleeding persists for more than a couple of weeks, it’s likely time to make an appointment with a dentist.
Lifestyle Modifications and Professional Support
Professional support and lifestyle modifications can also help. If you smoke, quit. Your doctor can help you with this, and you don’t have to go it alone.
You should also always see your dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year, even if your oral health is good otherwise. Your dental team will be able to clean areas that are difficult for you to reach at home and can resolve any tartar buildup that you are not able to clean yourself.
Why Choose Absolute Dental for Gum Emergencies in Carson City, NV?
Patients love Absolute Dental for our patient-centered approach to care, our state-of-the art facilities, and our superlative staff. We also offer many ways to pay, as well as generous payment plans.
Schedule Your Emergency Gum Appointment
If you have any of the symptoms above or other concerns, schedule an emergency dental appointment in Carson City today.
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