If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, you are not alone. Some causes are simple, like brushing too hard. Other times, bleeding can be a sign of early gum disease. The good news is that most gum problems are preventable and treatable with good home care and regular dental visits in Westover Family Dentistry inWinchester, VA.
Bleeding Gums: What It Usually Means
Healthy gums do not bleed during brushing or flossing. Bleeding often points to irritation from plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. If plaque stays on your teeth, the gums can become red, puffy, and tender. This early stage is called gingivitis, and it is both preventable and reversible with daily care and professional cleanings.
If you have a bad toothache or an infection, your dentist will usually suggest one of two paths: save the tooth with a root canal or remove it with an extraction. At Westover Family Dentistry in Winchester, VA, both options are available, and the team will help you choose the treatment that protects your health and your smile.
Root Canal vs Extraction: What’s the Real Difference?
Root canal treatment keeps your natural tooth in place. The dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, cleans the canal, then seals it so bacteria cannot return. Many teeth treated with root canals are topped with a crown for strength and long-term function. Westover Family Dentistry provides root canal therapy and crowns, so your tooth can look and feel natural again.
Extraction means taking the tooth out of the mouth. It is often the best choice when a tooth is too damaged to repair. Reasons include severe decay, advanced gum disease, fractures, or wisdom teeth that cause problems. Your dentist will discuss comfort options and a plan to replace the missing tooth if needed.
Visiting the dentist can sometimes feel a little scary for kids, but at Westover Family Dentistry in Winchester, VA, our doctors and caring team turn those worries into fun! We want every child to look forward to their visit. Going to our office isn’t just about keeping your smile bright and healthy; it’s about having a positive, engaging experience that will set your child on the path to lifelong dental wellness.Read More
At Westover Family Dentistry in Winchester, VA, our orthodontists and our team understand that your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A bright, confident smile can open doors, make great first impressions, and boost your self-esteem in ways you never imagined. That’s where a cosmetic dentist comes in to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.Read More
Are you considering orthodontic treatment to achieve the best smile? At Westover Family Dentistry in Winchester, VA, Dr. Austin Westover and Dr. Bryant Ash are dedicated to helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautiful smiles through comprehensive dental care, including orthodontic solutions like braces.
Are you dreaming of a straighter smile but worried about metal braces? At Westover Family Dentistry in Winchester, VA, Dr. Austin Westover and Dr. Bryant Ash offer Invisalign treatment to help you achieve the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted without the hassle of traditional braces.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern teeth-straightening system that uses clear, removable aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. These custom-made plastic trays fit snugly over your teeth and gradually move them into the correct position. Since the aligners are nearly invisible, most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.