Call me back

Bleeding gums

There are many reasons why you may experience bleeding gums from something simple, like using the wrong technique when you brush or floss, or it could be a sign of a more serious issue such as a health condition you need to check out.

Common Causes

  • You may have bleeding gums if you:
  • Have gum disease that causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Brush too hard or your toothbrush is too hard
  • Just started a flossing routine and your gums aren't used to it yet
  • Take certain medications, like blood thinners
  • Have inflamed gums because you're pregnant (pregnancy gingivitis)
  • Have dentures that don't fit well
  • Faulty dental restorations
  • Underlying medical condition such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, discuss this with your Newcastle Dental Practice dentist or hygienist at your next review. If you are suffering inflammation or discomfort, don’t wait for your next review, give us a call on 01782 616178 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth - a sticky substance that contains bacteria. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful for the health of your gums.

If you do not remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them regularly, it builds up, particularly under the gum line and hardens into tartar, which becomes more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums and lead to redness with bleeding, swelling and soreness.

Gingivitis can be prevented and often managed with a good oral hygiene regime. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash, and see your dentist regularly.

During your routine reviews and dental hygiene visits at Newcastle Dental Practice we will address any early signs of gum disease, giving your teeth a thorough clean and remove any hardened plaque (tartar). We will also show you how to clean your teeth effectively to help prevent plaque building up in the future.

If you have an increased risk of developing gum problems (for example, you smoke or have diabetes), you may be advised to visit Newcastle Dental Practice more often so your teeth and gums can be closely monitored.

Periodontitis

If you don't take care of your gingivitis in its early stages, it can lead to a more progressive form of gum disease known as periodontal disease or periodontitis.

At this stage the original plaque build up has developed into a harder, more damaging substance known as tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove, hides under the gum line and contains more harmful bacteria. If tartar is not effectively removed, bacteria will develop further and start to damage the soft tissue around the gums, creating pockets between the gumline and the teeth. Once these pockets are formed, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage the disease as they create hard to reach areas for bacteria to continue to develop.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that, without treatment, can eventually destroy the bone that supports your teeth, leading to loose teeth or even tooth loss.

There are wider health risks associated with periodontitis too. The bacteria responsible for periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue, possibly affecting other parts of your body. For example, periodontitis is linked with respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and problems controlling blood sugar in diabetes.

Signs of Periodontitis include:

  • Gums bleed easily
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Gums pull away from the base of your teeth
  • Bad breath and/or bad taste in your mouth

If you have Periodontitis you will need to regularly see the Newcastle Dental Practice dental and hygiene team to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums and manage the condition. In some cases, surgery may need to be carried out, usually performed by a dental specialist in gum problems (periodontist).

When to see your dentist or hygienist

If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you should discuss this with your Newcastle Dental Practice dentist or hygienist at your next review. If, however you are suffering from painful, swollen gums, don’t wait for your next review. Give us a call on 01782 616178 as soon as possible to get it checked out.

our dentist and/or hygienist will carry out a thorough dental examination to check the health of your gums. In some cases, a number of X-rays may be needed to check the condition of your teeth and jaw bone.

Patient Reviews

People are talking about us

The biggest complement we receive is when our patients refer their friends and family to Newcastle Dental Practice. In fact, we have built much of our practice on these valued, trusted recommendations over the years. Read our reviews to hear why our patients are recommending us…

Patient reviews

604 Reviews

5.0

13th December 2024

Harry & Clare are great and really put nervous patients like me at ease

RS

Richard Shenton

It was the best experience I have ever had before. They put me at ease. I was so scared. But not any more I am going back..thanks again.

11th December 2024

The reception staff were friendly and approachable. The practice is clean, smart and relaxing. The dentist and hygienist listened and discussed my care. They were both very professional.

6th December 2024

Professional and friendly

5th December 2024

Very professional and efficient team.

4th December 2024

Everyone is very friendly. My dentist listens to me and gives me advice as appropriate.

28th November 2024

I felt welcomed into the practice and felt that time was taken to explain what would be happening. I also felt no judgement for how my teeth currently are

28th November 2024

The professionalism of the staff in very pleasant surroundings.

23rd November 2024

Polite staff. Prompt treatment. Clean surgery with recent sympthetic upgrade.Dentist and hygienist explained everything.

21st November 2024

The friendly and helpful receptionist.The new bright waiting area.The professional manner of Meenu Chandy and her ability to answer my questions in a clear and understandable way

20th November 2024

Very good service and keep you updated on the treatment received and required

MB

Matt B

Excellent compassionate and professional service, specifically Harrison/Marcus/Sophie.

18th November 2024

Coming from an NHS dentist to this one is a significant increase in quality and care provided, as well as being reasonably priced. All staff actually seem like they want to be there and want to help.

18th November 2024

The warmth of greeting from the reception team through to the dental nurse and clinician looking after me, made me feel valued as a client. the overall impression is that this is a very close, well knit and happy cohesive team who value the clients and who are happy in what they do.

14th November 2024

History of being well treated

13th November 2024

Reception staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Dental hygienist is calming and considerate if experiencing pain. Dentist was lovely and welcoming. Dental nurses are all friendly and professional. Feel extremely at ease at this practice. Thank you.

12th November 2024

I have been with the practice fo over 50 years, and have had many treatments over this time.I have always been satisfied with my treatment and as the years have passed the practice has improved.

12th November 2024

Ease of booking as initial consultation was booked online. For all appointments so far I have been seen on time. Dentist explained everything clearly and guided me through the treatments.

10th November 2024

All staff very experienced, the practice very clean.

9th November 2024

The practice itself is lovely- but the team there are what makes the difference. I am a very nervous patient, and every time I come they put me at ease

Prev Previous
Next Next