Bleeding gums are a persistent and common issue and are quite often not considered a severe problem. You could observe some blood after brushing or flossing your teeth, because both efforts can irritate sensitive gums. The primary cause of your bleeding gums is the accumulation of plaque or tartar on your teeth. This buildup promotes bacteria growing along your gum line, which will immediately infect your gums. Consistent proper oral hygiene daily at home, along with preventative exams by your dentist every six months, will prevent any gum sensitivity and stymie gum bleeding.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are several likely causes of bleeding gums, including gum disease, which should need attention from your dentist. Frequent causes of bleeding gums include:
- Neglecting to brush your teeth twice a day which leaves damaging plaque and tartar on your teeth.
- Using a toothbrush too aggressively or using one with stiff bristles.
- Using an old, worn-out toothbrush that is no longer effective.
- Being too aggressive with dental floss irritating your gums.
- Taking certain medicines, such as blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
- Having gingivitis, or the first stage of gum disease.
When You Should See Your Dentist
It is always best to schedule a dental appointment anytime you notice changes in your teeth, gums, or mouth.
Any pain, discomfort, swelling, color change, fever, or bleeding of the gums is not healthy or normal. If the condition persists and does not diminish with good oral hygiene practices daily, your dentist will examine you to determine if it could be early-stage gum disease or another issue.
Other possible contributors can be a vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin C or K, pregnancy, or a medical condition, resulting in bleeding gums. Visit your dentist if the bleeding gums continue after trying to treat them at home. You can try to treat at home with these efforts; begin with a correct toothbrush twice a day, floss patiently, try a mouthwash or a warm saltwater rinse, use ice, a gauze pad, avoid smoking, and avoid sugary or processed foods.
Consistent and regular dental exams will prevent and stop early-stage gum disease from progressing. If neglected and left untreated, your gum disease will accelerate and advance to more infection and even tooth loss. Your dentist evaluates the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth and determines if there are any other problems, such as the presence of oral cancer.
Preventing Bleeding Gums in The Future
The simplest way to prevent bleeding gums is by leading a healthy lifestyle to fend off and repel any diseases that cause bleeding gums.
You can usually prevent bleeding gums and other gum problems by simply:
- Exercising good oral health care at home by brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing daily to remove the daily buildup of plaque.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
- Scheduling a consistent and preventative dental exam every six months.
- At each exam, have your teeth professionally cleaned.
- Seeing your family doctor regularly monitors any possible health problems that could contribute to gum problems, such as diabetes.
- Following a healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables, and limiting any processed foods and added sugars.
- Try to avoid tobacco or seek help to find a way to quit.
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