Are Bleeding Gums Serious?
Bleeding gums is quite common issue and is usually not considered serious problem. You may observe a suggestion of blood after brushing or flossing your teeth, both will irritate sensitive gums. The most common reason your gums are bleeding is from the buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth. These substances enhance bacteria growing along your gum line, which then infects your gums. Regular daily oral hygiene at home, complimented with exams at your dentist every six months, can control gum sensitivity and prevent gum bleeding.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are numerous causes for bleeding gums, including having gum disease, which needs immediate attention from your dentist. Common causes of bleeding gums also include:
- Not brushing your teeth twice a day, leaving plaque and tartar on your teeth.
- Using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard or stiff.
- Using a worn-out toothbrush that is no longer effective with cleaning.
- Being too aggressive using dental floss, irritating the gums.
- Taking specific medicines, such as blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
- Having gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease.
When You Should See Your Dentist
It is wise to make an appointment with your dentist if you see any changes with your teeth, gums, or mouth.
Discomfort, pain, swelling, redness, a fever, or bleeding of the gums is not healthy. If the condition reoccurs often or does not go away with good oral hygiene practices, your dentist will exam and identify if it is early-stage gum disease or another issue.
Other contributing causes might be a vitamin deficiency such as vitamin C or K, a pregnancy, or a specific medical condition with can result in to bleeding gums. You should visit your dentist if the bleeding persists after trying to treat it at home. You can first treat at home by attempting these steps; getting a proper toothbrush, flossing patiently, trying a mouthwash or a warm saltwater rinse, using ice, a gauze pad, avoiding smoking, and trying to avoid processed or sugary foods.
Regular and consistent dental exams can prevent and stop early-stage gum disease from progressing and becoming more serious. If left untreated the gum disease can lead to more infection and even tooth loss. Your dentist will evaluate the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth and identify larger problems, such as the presence of oral cancer.
Preventing Bleeding Gums in The Long Term
The easiest way to prevent bleeding gums is by practicing a healthy lifestyle that will ward off the diseases that cause bleeding gums.
You can often avoid and prevent bleeding gums and other gum problems by:
- Exercising good home oral health care by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day to consistently remove any buildup of damaging plaque.
- Replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
- Scheduling a dental exam every six months for consistent evaluations.
- At that same exam, having your teeth professionally cleaned.
- Seeing your doctor regularly to check for any health problems that could cause gum problems, such as diabetes.
- Eating a healthy diet which includes fruits and vegetables and limits processed foods and any added sugars.
- Try to avoid smoking or work with a doctor to find a way to quit smoking.