Swollen and Bleeding Gums in Sparks, NV

What Are Common Causes of Swollen or Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding and swollen gums almost always have an underlying cause. Many of those causes stem from poor oral hygiene. You should always brush your teeth twice per day, morning and night, and floss in the evening before brushing.

Plaque and tartar buildup from not brushing allow bacteria to invade the space between the teeth and gums. When this infection becomes bad enough or chronic, it can result in a condition called gum disease, a major cause of bleeding or swelling gums.

Gum disease has two basic stages: early gum disease, called gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Gingivitis can often be reversed, sometimes even with rigorous at-home care and regular visits to the dentist. However, periodontal disease can generally only be managed, and requires the services of a periodontist, a special dentist focused on treatment of the gums.

Other common causes of swollen gums include:

• Brushing too hard or with a toothbrush that is too hard.
• Dentures or other dental appliances that do not fit well.
• Hormonal changes, especially those associated with pregnancy.
• Vitamin deficiencies, especially vitamin C and K.
• Smoking or other tobacco use.
• Some medical conditions can contribute to swelling or bleeding gums, such as diabetes.

If you have any symptoms and aren’t absolutely sure about the underlying cause, you should schedule a dentist appointment immediately.

Can Swollen or Bleeding Gums Go Away on Their Own?

In some cases, yes, swollen and bleeding gums can heal by themselves, but only if it is caused by something temporary, like a lapse in your flossing routine, food stuck between the gums, or brushing too hard.

Other causes, such as infection, gum disease, plaque buildup, or other chronic or serious conditions will generally not heal on their own and need to be assessed by a dentist. Swollen and bleeding gums are generally an indication of a serious underlying problem.

In cases of injury, it’s always best to have your oral health checked by a dentist. Advanced imaging, such as X-rays, may be necessary, as your teeth may have been damaged in ways that you cannot readily see.

What Treatments Are Available?

Treatment for swollen or bleeding gums is dependent on the root cause of the problem.

For gum disease, the treatments range from frequent cleanings and rigorous at-home care to processes called scaling and dental planing. These help stop bacteria from collecting in the space between the gums and the teeth.

For infection, the remedy may be antibiotics. For ill-fitting dental appliances, treatment may involve new dentures. Restorative treatments, such as fillings and crowns, may also be an option, and for those with a vitamin deficiency, they may need treatment from a doctor.

For some, ongoing periodontal treatment may also be necessary. In every case, we will come up with a treatment plan that is unique to you and works for your unique oral health situation.

What Can I Do at Home To Prevent Swollen or Bleeding Gums?

The best thing you can do at home to prevent swollen and bleeding gums is to practice good oral health.

You should brush twice a day, every day, in the morning, and at night. Also, floss in the evenings before brushing. You may also elect to use antibacterial mouthwash. This is fine, but it should not replace either brushing or flossing.

You should also see a dentist for twice-yearly cleanings. Your dentist can help with any issues, like plaque and tartar buildup, that can lead to gum disease and any other issues you may be having that are affecting your oral health.

Finally, you should eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated. The natural bacteria in your mouth love sugar. Consider switching from sodas to water and eating a wide variety of whole foods. If you smoke or otherwise use tobacco products including vapes, quit.

How Can Absolute Dental Help With Swollen or Bleeding Gums in Sparks?

Absolute Dental in Sparks can help fix any of the underlying issues associated with bleeding or swollen gums. Our staff is among the best in the state, our offices are state-of-the-art, and our patient-centered approach to treatment ensures everyone receives the care they need.

Call today. We accept a wide variety of dental insurance, and for those without insurance, we offer many other ways to pay, including payment plans and financing.