Learn More About Bleeding Gums

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Various factors are responsible for bleeding gums. That being known, it’s important to determine the main cause of your condition. Here are the most common contributors to bleeding gums:

• Poor dental hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of bleeding gums. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar will build up on your teeth and gums. The bacteria in them can make your gums become inflamed, irritated, and bleed. This condition is also known as gingivitis. 

When you have gingivitis, gum disease is still reversible. But if the bacteria-containing plaque and tartar are still not removed, it can progress to periodontitis. It is a very serious oral health issue that damages the gums and bones supporting teeth, which can lead to tooth loss.

• Hormone changes

Fluctuations in hormones can affect your gums, making them more sensitive and susceptible to bleeding. This is especially common during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. 

Pregnancy gingivitis is a common occurrence brought about by an increase in hormones. Bleeding gums is a common sign of this.

• Brushing your teeth too harshly

An improper brushing technique can also lead to bleeding gums. Hard brushing can damage your gums and cause them to bleed. Instead, use gentle, circular motions when brushing your teeth. Also, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles.

• Certain medical conditions

Bleeding gums can also be a symptom of certain medical conditions. Some examples are leukaemia, vitamin C deficiency, and scurvy. If your gums bleed and you are also experiencing other symptoms, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

• Some medications

Blood thinners, anti-platelet drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can all cause your gums to bleed. If you take any of these medications and experience bleeding gums, consider consulting your doctor about possible side effects and options.

Yes. In fact, it is important to continue brushing twice a day and flossing daily, even if you have bleeding gums. This condition is often caused by plaque bacteria, which can be reduced by brushing and flossing.

However, remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when doing so. Good oral hygiene is the most important method of prevention of gum disease.

If you have bleeding gums, there are a few things you can do at home to help manage the condition:

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and floss regularly.

As mentioned, bacteria in plaque are the leading factor of bleeding gums. By brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and flossing every day, you can help remove plaque and prevent the progression of gum disease.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.

To avoid irritating your gums, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when brushing. This is especially true if an improper brushing technique is the culprit of your bleeding gums.

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.

Antibacterial mouth rinses can help prevent the growth of bacteria that cause gum disease. Be careful to follow the directions on the label and swish the rinse around your mouth for the recommended amount of time.

• Avoid smoking.

Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, which can manifest as bleeding gums. This affects your body’s ability to fight off the infection. If you smoke, quitting is the most important thing you can do for your oral and overall health.

• Schedule regular dental visits.

Professional cleanings are important in removing plaque and tartar that result in gum disease. This is because there are areas of your mouth that you cannot reach with brushing and flossing. During a professional cleaning, your dentist can also detect any early signs of the disease and provide treatment to prevent it from worsening.

Because bleeding gums can indicate the presence of gum disease, it’s important to take them seriously. If left unmanaged, it can escalate to periodontal gum disease. When this happens, there is irreversible damage to the tissues and bone supporting your natural teeth. This can eventually lead to loose teeth and tooth loss.

In addition, periodontal disease can be responsible for gum recession. The gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, exposing the root. Not only does this make your teeth look longer, but it can also cause sensitive teeth.

Timely intervention for gum disease is crucial to maintaining good dental health. This is because gingivitis can still be reversed at its early stage. However, once it becomes periodontitis, the damage is already done and can no longer be reversed.

If other factors are causing your bleeding gums, you must see a dentist to rule out any other potential problems. There is a link between gum disease and other medical conditions. This way, you can also get the proper treatment at once.

Prevention is always better than cure, and bleeding gums are no exception. The greatest way to avoid it is to practise good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.

Harmful habits such as smoking can also contribute to this condition, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. Seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups is also crucial. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent bleeding gums and keep your mouth healthy.