Don't Shy Away From Bleeding Gums

There are many causes of bleeding gums:

• Gingivitis: an often painless inflammation of the gums that is entirely reversible with meticulous oral hygiene--brushing and flossing.  Left untreated, however, it can lead to periodontitis, which is considerably more serious.
• Smoking: inhaling smoke directs toxins to the tissues and causes reduced oxygeneration of the blood supply of the tissues, making them more fragile.
• Hormones: hormonal changes during menstruation and pregnancy increase chances of bleeding gums.
• Medications: bleeding gums are a side effect of over 400 medications.
• Diet: carbohydrates from starchy and sugary foods create debris that sticks to the teeth and gums and can cause inflammation if not removed.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: eating food creates the formation of bacterial plaque on teeth and gums that needs to be removed daily to prevent the acids in the plaque from harming teeth and gums.

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Alcohol-Free Chlorhexidine Mouthrinse

Chlorhexidine mouthrinse is a prescription rinse that specifically attacks the bacteria that cause gum inflammation, and is commonly used in patients with periodontal conditions.

A study by Todkar compared the efficacy of alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthrinse, chlorhexidine containing alcohol and a placebo of water in terms of controlling gingival plaque and reduction of gingival inflammation in patients with gingivitis.

Measurements were made at the beginning, after 14 days and after 28 days.
The study concluded that the alcohol-free rinse was as effective as the one containing alcohol in controlling plaque and reducing gingival inflammation, and can be recommended for periodontal patients, especially those for whom the use of alcohol may lead to side effects.

Reported in: Dentistry Today, Feb., 2013, from Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, Fall 2012, vol 10, issue 3, pp 291-296.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)