English 
Spanish 
During our daily oral care routine, many of us have encountered a touch of red in the sink after flossing or brushing. It’s a moment that gives us pause, a subtle indicator that something might be amiss. Even if it may be a seemingly innocent occurrence, bleeding gums are not to be overlooked. In many cases, it is an important sign pointing towards a more significant issue—gum disease. Whether it’s a subtle trace on your toothbrush or a tint in the sink, these signs may signal a need for attention. At the Centre for Smile Designs, we aim to provide personalized and comprehensive treatment plans for those who have encountered this unwelcome guest during their daily rituals.
Understanding Gum Disease
One of the most common symptoms of gum disease is bleeding gums. It is typically the initial alert that something’s not quite right with your oral health. This symptom is often associated with inflammation caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, leading to gingivitis, one of the earliest stages. However, with the right information and care from Dr. Hopkins, gum disease can be managed and even reversed.
In addition to bleeding, there are other symptoms of gum disease to be aware of:
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
- Constant bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
As gum disease progresses, it can evolve into periodontitis, an advanced form that affects the tissues and bones that support your teeth. If not addressed promptly, this advanced stage can progress to more serious issues, including tooth loss.
You’re Experiencing Bleeding Gums. Now What?
When caught early, Dr. Hopkins can successfully treat gum disease. The treatment methods we offer vary depending on the severity of the disease. Options may involve professional dental cleanings, a deep cleaning technique known as scaling and root planing, and, when necessary, surgical procedures. We may also utilize advanced laser treatment, a minimally invasive option involving lasers to remove the diseased tissue around the tooth’s root. The main goal is to remove plaque and tartar buildup, eliminate bacterial infections, and restore gum health.
For patients with advanced periodontitis, more intensive treatments may be necessary. These can include surgical interventions such as flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery) to reduce the size of the gum pockets or bone and tissue grafts to regenerate any bone and gum tissue lost to periodontitis.
Stopping Bleeding Gums: The Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease
At the Centre for Smile Designs, we emphasize the importance of regular dental checkups and cleanings as preventive measures. Personalized oral hygiene advice and professional interventions can stop the progression of gum disease and even reverse its effects. When left untreated, gum disease can escalate beyond simple oral health issues, affecting your smile and overall well-being.
One of the most severe outcomes of untreated gum disease is tooth loss. As the disease progresses, the support structures of the teeth, including the gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place, are destroyed. As these support structures diminish, this can lead to teeth becoming loose and eventually falling out. Tooth loss affects not only the ability to chew and speak properly but also has significant emotional and psychological effects, impacting self-esteem and quality of life.
Research has also increasingly shown links between untreated gum disease and systemic health conditions. The inflammation associated with periodontitis can affect other health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases.
Your Restoration Options at the Centre for Smile Designs
In cases where a tooth cannot be saved, we provide various restoration options to restore your smile and functionality. Mini dental implants represent a versatile solution that can anchor a single crown and even stabilize dentures.
These implants are smaller than traditional implants, making them a suitable option for patients with minimal bone density. While traditional options measure about 5 millimeters in diameter, mini implants are half this size. They are also less invasive to place since they do not require incisions. This means they allow quicker healer time and are half the price of traditional restoration options.
Experiencing Bleeding Gums? Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today
Understanding the signs and symptoms of gum disease is the first step toward maintaining proper oral health. Remember, bleeding gums are a call to action, not a cause for panic. Contact us today at the Centre for Smile Designs. We will guide you through every step of your oral health journey, from preventive care to advanced restoration.
