When Should I Be Concerned with Bleeding Gums?
Some patients may see blood in the sink after brushing their teeth. Many patients will experience bleeding of the gums at some point in their life. While a little blood seem insignificant, gums which regularly bleed should be taken seriously and not ignored. Bleeding of the gums can be an early warning sign of a serious issue.
A variety of different things can cause the gums to bleed and below are some of the most common causes.
Brushing
Some patients use rough, vigorous strokes when brushing as they believe this will be the most effective way to clean their teeth. The gums are actually quite sensitive. As a result, firm brushing can cause irritation and result in redness or bleeding. It is best to gently brush in a circular motion to avoid damaging the gums.
Toothbrush Type
It is common for patients to select a toothbrush which contains firm or hard bristles. The thought is that this increased strength and firmness will aid in effecting cleaning. Unfortunately, these types of toothbrushes often irritate the gums and cause damage to the tooth’s enamel. Patients should instead use toothbrushes which contain medium or soft bristles.
Flossing
While flossing can seem pretty straightforward, some patients struggle with the process and use incorrect technique. By flossing too aggressively, it can actually cut the gums or result in receding gums. It is important to use a gentle pressure when flossing, and follow the curve of each individual tooth to ensure they are properly cleaned.
Gum Disease
A major contributor to tooth loss and a primary cause for bleeding gums is gum disease. It is a condition which will progress over time. In most cases, professional intervention is required in order to properly treat the gums and prevent it from becoming more serious. Gum disease is one of the most common reasons for a patient to experience bleeding gums.
Gum disease actually quite common in the U.S. It is a progressive condition, however, the symptoms are typically mild in the early stages. A patient may be unaware they have gum disease or ignore the signs until it progresses and becomes more serious. The earliest stage of the disease is called gingivitis. The main symptoms associated with gingivitis include bad breath and gums which easily bleed.
When gum disease remains untreated over time, it can develop into a more serious condition which is called periodontitis. This is associated with numerous issues which can have a negative impact on a patient’s dental and overall health. Issues associated with periodontitis include abscesses, damage to the jaw bone, losing teeth, cardiovascular disease, lung infections, and more.
Gum disease occurs when sticky, bacteria-filled plaque collects on the teeth and is not properly removed. Plaque causes irritation to the gums, making them swollen, sore, and can also result in bleeding.
If you experience bleeding gums, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause. When gum disease is detected early, the dentist can often remove the stubborn plaque with a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. It is important to take bleeding gums seriously as they could be an early sign of a bigger issue which should not be ignored.