In the chaos of the ongoing global pandemic, many dental patients have relaxed their oral hygiene regimen. This could be detrimental to your oral health as well as dangerous.
A study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that individuals with gum disease might have a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 complications. This is due to the link between inflamed gums and the body’s systemic inflammatory response.
Therefore, gum disease prevention and treatment are more important to prioritize than ever. Dr. Uttma Dham, a dentist in Plantation, FL, describes the importance of treating bleeding gums and other periodontal concerns promptly.
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a common condition, affecting almost half of American adults over the age of 30, but many patients are unaware they have this issue. This is why regular dentist appointments are so crucial to your overall wellbeing.
During these appointments, dentists clean plaque build-up from your teeth to prevent bacterial spread that can lead to oral infections and other dental problems. They also examine your smile to find potential concerns, including gum disease.
Some patients do not experience symptoms if they have gum disease, but others notice swollen, sore, or bleeding gums. While some bleeding may occur due to acute trauma, including brushing teeth too hard, continued symptoms should be addressed by your dental professional.
What Periodontal Treatment Can I Expect?
If your dentist finds that you have gum disease, they will likely complete a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums to remove excess plaque, bacteria, and tartar in hard-to-reach spots of your mouth. This extensive cleaning procedure is called scaling and root planing.
Advanced gum disease may require laser periodontal treatment or oral surgery. A surgeon can stitch gums tighter to your teeth to make it easier to keep the area clean and more difficult for bacteria to infect your gum pockets.
Dentists usually recommend preventative care for gum health through proper oral hygiene practices. They may also suggest using an antibacterial mouthwash to balance bacteria in your mouth and lower your risk of infection.
Treat Bleeding Gums in Plantation, FL
Westside Dental Center treats bleeding gums and other dental concerns in patients in Plantation, FL. Dr. Dham specializes in restorative, implant, cosmetic, and general dentistry. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 954.251.0640.