Why Are My Gums Bleeding

Bleeding gums are one of the most common dental problems. Many people experience bleeding gums at some point in their lives. However, if your gums continue to bleed after brushing your teeth, you should seek treatment from a dentist.

When your gums bleed, it means you have gum disease. This happens when bacteria grows in your mouth and irritates your gums. Bleeding gums can also be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis, which both require immediate treatment.

If your gums are bleeding after brushing or flossing your teeth, rinsing with mouthwash or a saltwater rinse can help reduce the bleeding, but you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist should examine you to determine the cause of your bleeding gums.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding gums can be caused by a number of conditions and factors, including:

• Eating habits (unhealthy diet)
• Poor oral hygiene routine
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Hormonal changes
• Pregnancy
• Certain illnesses and diseases
• Genetics
• Medications
• Stress

The best way to avoid getting gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene at home, as well as visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. If you are concerned about your bleeding gums, contact your dentist as soon as possible for further diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

What Are the Symptoms of Bleeding Gums?

The most common symptoms of bleeding gums are red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. Ongoing bleeding and tenderness of the gums are also common signs of disease.

If you have a family history of gum disease or diabetes, you may be at higher risk for developing it. Smoking tobacco and taking certain medications also make people more susceptible to the disease. It’s also possible to develop periodontal disease during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

If left untreated, the condition can lead to infection and inflammation that can damage the gum tissues and underlying bone structure that supports the teeth. The condition also increases the risk of tooth loss.

If you experience any of the symptoms above, see your dentist as soon as possible to get a proper assessment and treatment recommendations.

How Are Bleeding Gums Treated?

Your dentist may recommend a treatment plan to help alleviate your gum problems. This may include deep cleaning with a scaling and root planing treatment, which helps smooth your gums and remove bacteria from your teeth. Other treatment options may include prescription mouth rinses and toothpaste.

If you suffer from severe gum disease, you may need surgery to remove diseased tissue. In some cases, grafting procedures may be necessary to replace lost gum tissue. These treatments help restore your smile and prevent other health problems related to periodontal disease.

During your appointment, your dentist can help you determine which treatments are right for you. To learn more about treating bleeding gums and improving your oral health, schedule a consultation with a local dental office today!

How Can I Prevent Bleeding Gums?

Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with bristles that are too firm can damage the soft tissues on your gums and cause them to bleed during brushing. Using a soft-bristled brush, brushing gently, and avoiding aggressive brushing habits can help you avoid bleeding gums.

Flossing daily to remove plaque from between your teeth can also help stop bleeding gums and keep your teeth healthy. If you experience persistent gum irritation, talk to your dentist about ways to treat your sensitive gums.

If your gums are swollen, red, tender, or bleeding, make an appointment with your dental office as soon as possible for a checkup. Delaying treatment can make the problem worse and lead to serious gum disease. Your dentist may recommend rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash or applying a topical medication to your gums to help them heal and reduce discomfort.

For more information about bleeding gums, visit Englewood Dentistry at 334 Grand Ave, Englewood 07631, or call (201) 541-8111.