Most patients do not realize they have gum disease until it has begun to cause additional dental problems such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth. The gums serve as a foundation for the teeth. Keeping them healthy is important for long-term oral health and maintaining the integrity of your bite.
It is not uncommon to experience bleeding gums at some point in your life. Persistent bleeding gums, however, can be one of the early signs of periodontal disease. Jacksonville, FL dentist Dr. Donald Alexander treats bleeding gums, gingivitis, and gum disease with periodontal therapy services. We emphasize the importance of preventive dental care to enable us to spot gum disease in the early stages when conservative treatment is most effective.
Over three-quarters of the adult population is affected by some form of periodontal (gum) disease. Luckily, gum disease is one of the easiest problems to treat when it is caught early. Routine visits to the dentist for screening and professional teeth cleaning can help you intercept problems in the early stage and avoid complicated treatment. If you have this common dental concern, call our office.
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
Recognizing the signs of gum disease is also an important step in maintaining lifelong oral health. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized as an inflammation of the gums. Classic signs of these conditions include:
- Bleeding gums
- Sore gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice any of the above signs or symptoms of gum disease, come in for a visit with Dr. Alexander to address the problem and reduce the risk of further damage. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss!
Treatment for Bleeding Gums in Jacksonville
It is important to seek professional treatment for bleeding gums. Do not self-medicate with over-the-counter drugs or ointments. A trained dentist like Dr. Alexander can advise you on the best treatments and at-home care.
To treat gingivitis, Dr. Alexander will recommend a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. The dentist may suggest that you make more frequent visits to monitor the health of your gums to be sure that optimal health is restored. Dr. Alexander also recommends additional at-home care to maintain gum health between visits.
For more advanced stages of gum disease, Dr. Alexander will provide more intensive cleaning. This includes cleaning the deep pockets of your gums to remove bacteria and build-up. We provide laser dentistry treatments for faster, safer, and more comfortable treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
Your dental health plays a role in your daily quality of life. Patients with poor dental health raise the risk or severity of overall health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and endocarditis. Keeping your smile healthy enables you to enjoy a varied diet and speak normally, two important factors in maintaining the quality of life as we age.
If you have bleeding gums or sore gums, schedule a consultation with Jacksonville dentist, Dr. Alexander, for a periodontal screening to check for signs of gum disease. Call 904-901-4302 or request an appointment online.