Medical Health Encyclopedia

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, and ask questions such as:

• Are the gums bleeding a large amount?
• Did the bleeding begin recently?
• Do the gums bleed frequently or only occasionally?
• Have you had gum problems before?
• How often do you brush?
• How often do you floss?
• Do you use a soft or hard bristled toothbrush?
• How vigorously do you brush?
• What other home care aids do you use (toothpicks or other)?
• When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned at the dentist?
• Have you changed your diet?
• Do you eat adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables?
• Do you take supplemental vitamins?
• Do you have a high carbohydrate diet (pasta)?
• What medications do you take? Do you take anticonvulsants, anticoagulants (such as Coumadin, heparin), or aspirin?
• Are you pregnant?
• Have you changed mouthwash or tooth paste recently?
• What other symptoms do you have? (e.g., sore throat )

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Blood studies such as a CBC or blood differential
• X-rays of the teeth and jawbone