Bleeding gums when flossing/brushing

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Bleeding gums when flossing/brushing

October 19, 2009 7:17 PM

Hi Dr. Choo,

Lately I have noticed that when I floss the gums above 1 of my teeth starts to bleed. Also, sometimes when I brush, I will notice a bit of blood when I spit out my toothpaste. Does this mean I have gum disease of some sort? Will getting a cleaning help? (I think cleanings are $120.00 -is this still correct?) I don't have dental insurance so I don't think I can afford more than a cleaning.

Thanks!

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Dr. Sue-Ann Choo

October 19, 2009 11:44 PM

Yes, bleeding gums are generally the first signs of gum disease. It could be just early gingivitis which is treated with a simple cleaning. However, in worse cases, it could be periodontal disease which is harder (and more expensive) to treat because it involves more aggressive scalings and/or more scaling appointments. Either way, it's a good idea to get it checked out.

If it is a routine cleaning (ie. you generally get cleanings and check-ups at least once or twice a year), then the cost is in the range of $120. However, since scalings are billed by time, the more we need to scale, the more expensive your scaling will be.
Hope this helps,
Dr Choo

October 21, 2009 6:37 PM

Thanks Dr. Choo!

Can I just book a cleaning for $120.00? Will I be told ahead of time (if you are doing extra scaling) if it will be more?