Bleeding Receding Gums

What Causes Bleeding and Receding Gums?

In the following educational dental video, experienced Buffalo dentist Douglas Hamill DDS discusses the causes of bleeding and receding gums.

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Why do I have bleeding gums?

Seeing blood when you brush your teeth is often a signal that something is wrong with your gums and that you have a buildup of plaque. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing twice a day, and it is never too late to start. If regular brushing and flossing do not seem to help reduce or eliminate the bleeding in your gums, you should make an appointment with your local dentist. Notify your dentist that your gums are bleeding and that you might need a deep cleaning or a scaling to correct the issue.

What causes receding gums?

Though you may be committed to your dental health, brushing your teeth too hard can in fact result in gingival recession, or receding gums. You must take care when you brush to not scrub back and forth too hard, and make sure that you use a soft toothbrush. Another common cause of gingival recession is grinding. If you grind your teeth in your sleep or while you are awake, the gums can recede. There are options available to fix problems such as grinding, and your dentist will be able to provide proper guidance.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease can set in when your gums start reacting to plaque buildup on the surface of the teeth. When gum disease emerges, you can expect your gums to become red and swollen, and they may begin to bleed easily. If this is not corrected, gum disease can lead to periodontitis, which is when the bone below or above the teeth starts to be effected.

Do you have bleeding or receding gums? Contact our experienced dentists in Buffalo, Douglas Hamill DDS to schedule a consultation. He has over 25 years of experience in dentistry and prides himself on providing affordable dental care in a professional environment utilizing the latest in dental technology.

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