If you think a little bleeding now and then when you brush or floss your teeth is normal, think again. Simply put–healthy gums don’t bleed.

Poor Hygiene

Most of the time, bleeding gums are the result of inadequate plaque removal due to infrequent or poor brushing habits. Plaque contains germs and will attack the healthy tissue around your teeth. Over time, this causes redness and inflammation which may bleed while brushing and flossing. This is called Gingivitis, and it is the first stage of gum disease.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a persistent condition caused by the continuing effects of plaque and tartar buildup. Almost everyone will have some degree of gingivitis at some point in their lives, but consistent dental attention can turn it around. Plaque can be easily removed with a proper brushing and flossing routine, but tartar requires a trip to the dentist. At this point, Gingivitis has advanced into a more serious condition called Periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease

While gingivitis is confined to the gums, periodontal disease spreads into the tissues and bones that support your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and may even affect your overall health.

Bleeding Gums Can Affect Your Overall Health

A growing body of research finds that bacteria and inflammation in your mouth can be related to other problems, including:

• heart disease
• stroke
• dementia
• diabetes
• cancer
• rheumatoid arthritis

Even more reasons why you should not ignore your bleeding gums!

You May be at Risk

As we’ve covered, almost everyone will have some degree of gingivitis sometime in their lives. There are certain factors that will increase your probability:

• Age – The incidence of gum disease increases with age.
• Stress – Research indicates that stress can make it more difficult for your body to fight off infection, including periodontal diseases.
• Medications – Some prescription medicines can increase your risk of gum disease.
• Genetics – Some of us are just predisposed to get gum disease. If members of your family have a history of gum problems, you can ask your dentist for a simple genetic test to determine your risk.

Take Preventative Action

Osborne Family Dental is a friendly, modern private practice located in North Canton, Ohio since 2005. Dr. Robert Osborne and his experienced staff emphasize regular preventative care and thorough screenings to detect your dental problems early when they are most easily treated. We recommend return visits on a schedule based upon your individual needs and as your dental health requires.

If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal, it is perfectly natural for you to be apprehensive about a new experience. Let’s take a look at root canals and all that they entail in hopes that a little knowledge will go a long way in allaying your fears.

What Exactly is a Root Canal?

One of the most common dental procedures, a root canal is reformed to give your natural tooth a second chance by treating the inflammation and infection from the inside. A root canal treatment is required when the pulp (the soft tissue inside your teeth) becomes inflamed or diseased…possibly from a deep cavity or a cracked or broken tooth. During a root canal operation, your dentist will remove the infected pulp. The pulp chamber and root canal of your tooth are then cleaned and sealed. If the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result, and your tooth may have to be removed.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

With advances in modern dentistry, a root canal is very similar to having a routine tooth filling and can most often be completed in one or two appointments. (This will depend on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances.) If you tooth is infected or inflamed, it is highly likely you are in substantial pain before the procedure, and that the root canal will relieve your discomfort.

Is a Root Canal Expensive?

The cost of a root canal varies depending on how severe the problem is and which of your teeth is affected. The leading factor that will determine your root canal cost is the amount of time and resources your dentist must commit to complete the procedure. Osborne Family Dental is a modern, friendly, quality care private dental practice located in North Canton, Ohio. We feel we are competitively priced with other practices of our caliber and promise:

• Reliable cost estimates before treatment starts
• Financial consultation available on site or over the phone
• Flexible payment options
• Fees that are a fair and reasonable reflection of the quality of care that we provide

We want to help you manage the costs of keeping your teeth healthy. At Osborne Family Dental, we strive to provide you with a positive, pleasant experience.