Why Do My Gums Bleed?

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Why Do My Gums Bleed? Understanding Gingivitis

Seeing blood in the sink after brushing or flossing can be alarming, but it’s a common sign your gums need attention. Bleeding gums are most often an indicator of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. At Practice 32 in Colorado Springs, our dental hygienists are experts in identifying and helping you manage gingivitis through professional care and education.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused primarily by the buildup of bacterial biofilm (plaque) along the gumline. When plaque isn’t removed effectively through daily brushing and flossing, bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gum tissue, causing inflammation.

Common Signs of Gingivitis

Besides bleeding when brushing or flossing, other signs include:

  • Red, swollen, or puffy gums
  • Tender gums
  • Persistent bad breath (halitosis)

Importantly, gingivitis is often painless in its early stages, which is why bleeding might be the first or only sign you notice.

Why Healthy Gums Don’t Bleed

Healthy gum tissue is firm, pink, and fits snugly around the teeth. It should not bleed with normal brushing or flossing. Bleeding indicates inflammation and irritation caused by bacteria.

How Your Hygienist at Practice 32 Addresses Bleeding Gums

If your gums are bleeding, a visit to your dental hygienist is essential. Here’s how we help:

  • Professional Cleaning: We meticulously remove the plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) above and just below the gumline that irritates the gums and causes inflammation. Our use of Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) ensures thorough yet gentle cleaning.
  • Gum Health Assessment: We measure gum pocket depths and assess the level of inflammation to understand the extent of the gingivitis.
  • Personalized Home Care Instruction: We identify areas you might be missing during brushing or flossing and provide tailored coaching on the best techniques and tools (like specific floss, interdental brushes) for effective plaque removal at home.
  • Laser Bacterial Reduction (Optional): In some cases, we may use a dental laser as an adjunct therapy to reduce harmful bacteria levels in the gum pockets.

The Importance of Treating Gingivitis

The good news is that gingivitis is usually reversible with professional cleaning and consistent, improved home care. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease where bacteria destroy the bone supporting the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. Diagnosing and treating periodontitis often involves a referral to a dentist or periodontist working within a dental practice.

Stop the Bleeding – Improve Your Gum Health in Colorado Springs

Don’t ignore bleeding gums! It’s your body’s signal that your gums need attention. Schedule a visit with our expert dental hygienists at Practice 32.

Call Practice 32 today at 719-427-4733 to book your appointment and address the cause of your bleeding gums!


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Lisa.
Lisa.★★★★★

I highly recommend Practice 32. Olivia is very knowledgeable. She has state of the art equipment and takes the time to explain what she is doing, explains how to properly floss and how to take the best care of your teeth. Very different from any other teeth cleaning I’ve ever experienced! Definitely check out Practice 32!

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When I went to Practice 32, I found Olivia to be very professional and friendly. The office was immaculate, beautifully decorated and calming. Olivia spent more time than any other dental hygienist I had been to explaining her process and how to better care for my teeth…

Joe
Joe★★★★★

Not only are my teeth super clean, I learned so much in how to properly clean my teeth. Trust me, I thought I knew what I was doing but Olivia showed me the way!! If you want great care and knowledge, go see Olivia. Wouldn’t go anywhere else!!

Michelle
Michelle★★★★★

This was the most pleasant and relaxing dental cleaning that I’ve ever had. Olivia was patient and kind, and explained the process and the equipment. I found it both interesting and informative! I appreciate that she was also able to take X-rays, which can be sent to my new dentist. Olivia will be my hygienist from here on out. Thank you!

Rose
Rose★★★★★

Olivia is a wonderful! This is the first time I’ve used the guided biofilm therapy, and my teeth felt so much cleaner than a traditional cleaning. Highly recommend!

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Olivia and her team are amazing. This was my 2nd visit to Practice 32 and their welcoming environment, coupled with their professional dental care make it very easy for me to highly recommend them.
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