Bleeding gums

There are many reasons why you may experience bleeding gums from something simple, like using the wrong technique when you brush or floss, or it could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a health condition you need to check out.

Common Causes

You may have bleeding gums if you:

  • Have gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Brush too hard or your toothbrush is too hard
  • Just started a flossing routine and your gums aren't used to it yet
  • Take certain medications, like blood thinners
  • Have inflamed gums because you're pregnant (pregnancy gingivitis)
  • Have dentures that don't fit well
  • Faulty dental restorations
  • Underlying medical condition such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss this with your Castle Park Dental Care dentist or hygienist at your next review. If you are suffering inflammation or discomfort, don’t wait for your next review, give us a call on 01482 770597 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth - a sticky substance that contains bacteria. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful for the health of your gums.

If you do not remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them regularly, it builds up, particularly under the gum line and hardens into tartar, which becomes more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums and lead to redness with bleeding, swelling and soreness.

Gingivitis can be prevented and often managed with a good oral hygiene regime. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash, and see your dentist regularly.

During your routine reviews and dental hygiene visits at Castle Park Dental Care we will address any early signs of gum disease, giving your teeth a thorough clean and remove any hardened plaque (tartar). We will also show you how to clean your teeth effectively to help prevent plaque building up in the future.

If you have an increased risk of developing gum problems (for example, you smoke or have diabetes), you may be advised to visit Castle Park Dental Care more often so your teeth and gums can be closely monitored.

Periodontitis

If you don't take care of your gingivitis in its early stages, it can lead to a more progressive form of gum disease known as periodontal disease or periodontitis.

At this stage the original plaque build up has developed into a harder, more damaging substance known as tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove, hides under the gum line and contains more harmful bacteria. If tartar is not effectively removed, bacteria will develop further and start to damage the soft tissue around the gums, creating pockets between the gumline and the teeth. Once these pockets are formed, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage the disease as they create hard to reach areas for bacteria to continue to develop.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that, without treatment, can eventually destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

There are wider health risks associated with periodontitis too. The bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue, possibly affecting other parts of your body. For example, periodontitis is linked with respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and problems controlling blood sugar in diabetes.

Signs of Periodontitis include:

  • Gums bleed easily
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Gums pull away from the base of your teeth
  • Bad breath and/or bad taste in your mouth

If you have Periodontitis you will need to regularly see the Castle Park Dental Care dental and hygiene team to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums and manage the condition. In some cases, surgery may need to be carried out, usually performed by a dental specialist in gum problems (periodontist).

When to see your dentist or hygienist

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you should discuss this with your Castle Park Dental Care dentist or hygienist at your next review. If, however you are suffering from painful, swollen gums, don’t wait for your next review. Give us a call on 01482 770597 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

our dentist and/or hygienist will carry out a thorough dental examination to check the health of your gums. In some cases, a number of X-rays may be needed to check the condition of your teeth and jaw bone.

Patient Reviews

Why our patients love Castle Park Dental

Here's some of the recent feedback from our amazing patients

Patient reviews

542 Reviews

5.0

1st December 2024

I was very impressed by the way everything was explained to me before treatment. The treatment itself was without pain but I was regularly asked if I was alright throughout the procedure, which I found very reassuring.All the staff that I have had dealings with, from reception to clinicians and surgeons, have been very friendly and professional.I would not hesitate in recommending this practice to my friends and family!

29th November 2024

The atmosphere in the practice is calm and relaxing, which, as a nervous person, makes me feel relaxed. Everyone is polite and helpful and all of my questions were answered. I was not rushed or made to feel awkward, everyone was very professional.

29th November 2024

Been using this practice years never had a problem would highly recommend

29th November 2024

All the dentists are very professional & understanding. I saw Andrew for a filing that needed re doing & he explained everything very clearly & was very understanding as I suffer with anxiety about dental appointments

IM

Iain Munro

Absolutely fantastic.

23rd November 2024

Highly efficient business model keeping the anxiety levels to a minimum. Helpful and friendly staff keeping you fully informed. Explaining procedures throughout the process is very helpful.

23rd November 2024

Always so helpful and reassuring, great staff and so friendly at reception. The check up appointment is very thorough and puts your mind at rest as is the hygienist appointment .

22nd November 2024

The whole team at Castle Park works together to provide a very professional service. In particular, the clinician was quick to recognise my needs and explain the available options.

22nd November 2024

Easy parking, spacious facilities inside, state if the art kit. Can see the same dentist who has looked after you for years.

22nd November 2024

My teeth are in the best condition ever since attending here

20th November 2024

Andrew the dentist is fantastic. He’s so kind and explains things well.

RA

Ruhul Amin

Dr Ozge is very thorough. Initial examination included the usual + X rays + an intra-oral scan. Would recommend.

11th November 2024

It was only my initial new patient assessment. I was pleasantly surprised how thorough it was. It gave me the confidence to continue with my treatment. I'm just waiting now for the treatment plan to arrive.

10th November 2024

Excellent communication. Professional and efficient service. Pain free dentistry Clean safe environment

8th November 2024

All the staff are always professional, friendly and give you confidence in your treatment.

8th November 2024

Polite profesional and knowledgeable. They always attempt to get you in at a convenient time.

8th November 2024

Great service and care. Staff polite and attentive to needs.

5th November 2024

Very polite and professional. Made one feel at ease.

5th November 2024

As the patient suffers from Alzheimer’s the staff were very kind,patient and understanding.

4th November 2024

Edward is the most polite and most friendly person I've ever encountered in a dental practice. An ultimate professional and thoroughly nice man.

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