Are Bleeding Gums Serious?
Gum bleeding is common and is usually not considered serious. You might notice some blood after brushing or flossing your teeth, which can irritate sensitive gums. The most common reason your gums may bleed is because of plaque or tartar buildup. These substances allow bacteria to grow along the gum line, which in turn infects the gums. Good oral hygiene at home, along with complimentary six-month exams at your dentist, can prevent sensitivity and bleeding.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are many simple factors for bleeding gums, including the last, having gum disease, which needs immediate attention from your dentist. Common causes of sensitive or bleeding gums include:
- Not brushing your teeth often enough, or at least twice a day.
- Using a toothbrush in which the bristles are too stiff or hard.
- Using a frayed, worn-out toothbrush that no longer cleans effectively.
- Being too rough with the dental floss, instead of gently pushing it down and hugging the sides of each tooth.
- Taking certain medicines, such as aspirin, blood thinners, or ibuprofen.
- Having gingivitis, or the beginning stage of gum disease.
When You Should See Your Dentist
You should make an appointment with your dentist if you notice changes in your gums, teeth, or mouth.
Discomfort, pain, swelling, redness, a fever, or bleeding of the gums should not happen every day. If the problem is frequent or does not go away with good oral hygiene practices, your dentist can exam for early-stage gum disease or other issues.
Vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin C or K, a pregnancy, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to bleeding gums. You should see your dentist if the bleeding does not go away after trying to treat the bleeding at home. You can do so at home by trying these steps; by using gauze, ice, mouthwash, a warm saltwater rinse, using the right toothbrush, flossing properly, avoiding smoking, and avoiding processed and sugary foods.
Regular and consistent dental visits can stop minor, early-stage gum disease from becoming more serious. Untreated gum disease will eventually lead to more infection and tooth loss. Your dentist can also track the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth and spot bigger problems, such as the initial stages of mouth cancer.
Long-term Prevention of Bleeding Gums
The easiest way to avoid bleeding gums is to adopt a healthy lifestyle that prevents the diseases that cause bleeding gums.
You can often avoid and prevent bleeding gums and other gum problems by:
- Practicing good at home oral health care, including brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
- Replacing your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months.
- Seeing your dentist every six months.
- Scheduling regular hygienist appointments for professional cleaning and plaque and tartar removal.
- Visiting a doctor regularly to check for any health problems that might contribute to gum problems, such as diabetes.
- Avoiding smoking or collaborate with a doctor to find a way to quit smoking.
- Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and limiting processed foods and added sugars.