Everything You Need To Know About Bleeding Gums

Did you recently notice a bit of pink on the sink after brushing your teeth, or maybe some blood in your mouth after flossing? If you're worried about your bleeding gums, we can offer some insight on the most probable causes and what you can do next.

Our team at Dr. Silman Smile Spa works hard to give all of our patients the knowledge they need to make better choices about their dental health.

The Leading Causes of Bleeding Gums

While bleeding gums are not usually dangerous, the underlying condition causing the symptom might be. The most common causes include those listed below.

Gum Disease or Periodontal Disease

The primary cause of bleeding gums is often the buildup of plaque, a tough film of bacteria, around the gum line. When left to fester, it will eventually infect the gums and leave them tender, swollen, and prone to bleeding. This condition, known as gingivitis, can also cause tooth infections and harm your overall health if not properly treated.

Bad Brushing Habits

Brushing your teeth with excessive pressure won't do anything for your oral health; it only leads to bleeding gums. It also puts you at risk of developing receding gums, especially if you use a toothbrush with very hard bristles.

Poorly-Fitting Dental Implements

When dentures, braces, retainers, or other dental implements don't properly fit in your mouth, they can cause bleeding gums. This is why regular dental checkups are crucial. A dentist can make the necessary adjustments to ensure a more comfortable and healthier fit and prevent future issues.

Pregnancy Gingivitis

Did you know that over half of pregnant women experience gum inflammation and bleeding? The reason for this is the hormonal changes in their body, which cause their immune system to go into "overdrive" when exposed to disease-causing bacteria. An easy way to prevent pregnancy gingivitis is to make regular dental appointments and practice good oral care habits.

Unhealthy Diet

Eating highly processed foods frequently can lead to inflamed gums. These foods often stick to your mouth and break down into sugar, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This is why many dentists recommend a change in diet for patients who regularly experience bleeding gums due to infections.

Health Conditions

Aside from gingivitis, medical conditions like leukemia, anemia, liver disease, and bleeding disorders can make you more vulnerable to bleeding gums. It can also be a side effect of treatment like blood-thinning medications, which leads to increased bleeding.

Prevention Is Always Better Than a Cure

With the main cause of bleeding gums being gingivitis, improving your oral hygiene alone can go a long way in preventing this uncomfortable symptom. Here are some basic tips that you can follow.

Brush Your Teeth Everyday

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is the most effective way you can prevent gum bleeding. Remember to gently clean your gum line, tongue, and other areas of your mouth that can harbor bacteria and food debris. Removing any plaque before it builds up and hardens allows you to avoid many painful conditions like tooth decay and gingivitis.

Spit out the excess toothpaste after brushing your teeth, but don't rinse your mouth with water immediately. Giving the toothpaste residue time to soak in makes sure that the fluoride stays longer and provides more protection.

Floss Between the Teeth

Flossing is another crucial component of maintaining a healthy mouth. A regular toothbrush can't get in between your teeth, so you need to use another tool to clean those areas. Otherwise, pockets of plaque might form and lead to inflammation of the gums.

Keep in mind that it's normal to have some sore gums or even some minor bleeding when you start your flossing routine for the first time. After a week or so, your gums will naturally strengthen, and the mild discomfort should disappear.

Use Antiseptic Mouthwash

Adding mouthwash to your daily routine is always worth it because it cleans a larger surface area of your mouth and helps prevent swollen gums caused by a bacterial infection.

Apart from discouraging inflammation, it can also help freshen your breath by killing bacteria associated with halitosis (bad breath). We recommend a mouthwash that has fluoride to give your teeth and gums more protection throughout the day.

Practice a Healthier Diet and Lifestyle

A balanced diet doesn't just protect against bleeding gums and plaque buildup, but it's also good for your overall health. Avoid highly processed, sugary products and try to incorporate foods high in vitamin C and vitamin K to boost your immune system.

Other lifestyle factors that can lead to bleeding gums include drinking alcohol and smoking. With poor health, any gum infections you might have will take longer to heal and could eventually turn into gingivitis.

Take Regular Visits to Your Dentist

As with anything related to your tooth and gums, nothing can serve as a substitute for dental appointments. Just like you might take your vehicle to the mechanic to maintain its condition, visiting your dentist can protect your dental health.

During a checkup, your dentist will assess your oral condition, diagnose any issues, and apply the appropriate treatment. Professional cleanings are also much more comprehensive than your regular tooth brushing. Dentists use special tools to clean every part of your mouth and remove plaque buildup.

If you regularly experience bleeding gums, we don't recommend waiting until your next appointment. Book a visit and seek treatment as soon as you can and prevent your condition from worsening.

Start Your Journey Towards Proper Oral Hygiene Today

The reassuring news is that encountering issues like bleeding gums, gingivitis, and various forms of periodontal disease doesn't have to spell permanent trouble. Even in advanced stages, these conditions are treatable with the proper intervention. If your gums are bleeding excessively during your routine brushing or flossing, don't hesitate to contact the skilled dental hygienists at Dr. Silman Smile Spa.

Frequent bleeding gums may indicate an underlying issue, and addressing it promptly is key to preventing the escalation of gum disease. Our dedicated team at Dr. Silman Smile Spa is equipped to provide the necessary guidance, diagnosis, and treatment to tackle the root cause of bleeding gums.

Taking action sooner rather than later can make a significant difference in thwarting the progression of gum disease. Our goal is to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life. Whether you seek advice on oral care practices, a thorough diagnosis, or targeted treatment, our experts are here to assist you. Book an appointment today to take proactive steps towards preventing bleeding gums in the future.

Understanding the potential cause of bleeding gums is essential in tailoring our approach to your needs. Our team will conduct a comprehensive examination during your appointment to identify the underlying factors contributing to your gums bleeding. This personalized approach ensures we address the root cause, offering effective and targeted solutions.

Remember, your oral health is a crucial component of your overall well-being. Don't let persistent gums bleeding go unaddressed – take control of your dental health by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Silman Smile Spa today. Our commitment is to empower you with the knowledge and treatments needed to preserve your smile and prevent the recurrence of bleeding gums in the future.

By reaching out to us sooner rather than later, you can avoid the progression of gum disease and keep your healthy, beautiful smile for life. Whether you require advice, diagnosis, or treatment, book an appointment today and prevent bleeding gums in the future!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my gums bleeding?

Bleeding gums can be caused by various factors, such as gum disease, inadequate oral hygiene, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions. To address the issue effectively, it's essential to identify the specific cause.

Is bleeding gums a sign of gum disease?

Yes, bleeding gums can be a common early symptom of gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Poor oral hygiene leads to the buildup of plaque, which can irritate the gums and cause bleeding. Regular dental check-ups can help prevent and detect gum disease.

Can hormonal changes cause gums to bleed?

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or menopause, can contribute to gum sensitivity and bleeding. It's crucial for individuals experiencing hormonal changes to maintain good oral hygiene and seek dental advice to manage any potential gum issues.

How can I prevent bleeding gums?

To prevent bleeding gums, practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Additionally, attend regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and early detection of any oral health issues.

When should I see a dentist for bleeding gums?

If you experience persistent or severe gum bleeding, it's advisable to schedule a dentist appointment promptly. Ignoring bleeding gums could lead to more significant oral health issues. The dentist will assess the cause, recommend appropriate treatment, and guide on maintaining optimal oral hygiene.