May 25 2020
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I have bleeding gums. What can I do?
My gums are bleeding, what can I do?
Swollen gums are those that look inflamed, enlarged, and usually red.
Gum inflammation is very common since the Spanish Society of Periodontology and Osseointegration (SEPA) states that 85.2% of the population suffers from some kind of periodontal or gum problem, either gingivitis or periodontitis (periodontal disease).
Gum inflammation is a common problem that is often overlooked, since it often curses without pain, and sometimes the patient himself does not perceive the inflammation.
The first phase of periodontal disease is gingivitis. This, curses with gum inflammation, bleeding (spontaneous or in response to brushing). Gingivitis is caused by bacterial plaque (tartar deposits) that are not eliminated during brushing. The treatment of gingivitis is based on professional cleaning or prophylaxis accompanied by exhaustive oral hygiene instructions personalized for each case.
When gingivitis is not treated and progresses, the accumulation of bacterial plaque (tartar) will cause the formation of periodontal pockets. These bacteria accumulated between the gum and the root of the tooth will cause the loss of bone that supports the roots and as a result may lead to tooth loss. This phase of periodontal disease is called chronic periodontitis. According to some studies by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) 47% of the adult population suffers from periodontitis. To treat periodontitis, a periodontal study is first performed based on a periodontal chart (clinical examination of the gums and teeth) and a periapical series (X-rays of all the teeth). Once a diagnosis is made, the first phase of treatment will consist of scaling and root planing of all four quadrants of the mouth. After 6-8 weeks a re-evaluation of the gums will be carried out with another periodontal chart. Depending on the severity of the case, in this visit it will be decided if some type of surgical treatment is necessary or if the patient can start coming to the office for frequent periodontal maintenance.
Periodontal maintenance is comprehensive prophylaxis that is performed on patients with periodontitis. In the maintenance visits, in addition to the treatment of mechanical cleaning of the teeth and gums, the disease is monitored to prevent further destruction of the tissues that support the teeth. Depending on each patient’s susceptibility to periodontal disease and the plaque control they are able to achieve, the frequency with which patients are seen for maintenance will be decided. Periodontal maintenance can vary between 2 and 4 per year.
If you suffer from gum inflammation, spontaneous bleeding or while brushing, or sensitivity, we recommend that you see our periodontist. At BLASI Clínica Dental Barcelona we have a periodontics team made up of hygienists and periodontists who will treat and monitor your gum disease in a comprehensive and effective manner.