My Gums Are Bleeding: What Does It Mean?

/ Glenn Reit D.D.S./

I’m not flossing because I’m lazy and why should I floss?  Think of your teeth as cubes.  When you brush you are cleaning the top, back and front.  However you are not cleaning in between your teeth and these areas are harboring anaerobic bacteria which produce acids which irritate your gums and cause them to bleed.

Without flossing plaque forms which is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms and needs to be physically removed by flossing.   The longer the plaque remains between your teeth the more irritated your gums become which leads to gum disease.  If left untreated for a prolonged period of time  the plaque becomes tartar which  is a hardened material which even flossing will not remove.

If left untreated the first phase of gum disease called gingivitis occurs.  Left untreated this will advance into periodontitis which if left untreated will lead to eventual loss of your teeth.  This process takes quite a while and can be prevented by coming in for a dental exam and cleaning.

Here at the dental practice of Dr Glenn Reit we like people and like maintaining and restoring patient’s dental health.  No one loves coming to the dentist but prevention is always better than intervention.  If you think it’s time for a dental checkup it probably is.

We are conveniently located at 1498 Third Avenue between 84th and 85th streets on the second floor of a five story brownstone directly across from McDonalds.  So give us a call at 212 517 9000 today.  You and your teeth will be glad you did.

Looking for a Dentist in the Upper East Side?

At the practice of Glenn Reit DDS; we provide quality care in a relaxed, comfortable, clean and safe environment. Please contact us today at 212 517 9000 for this or any other of your dental needs. We look forward to seeing and taking care of you!