Bleeding gums are the first sign that something is wrong and requires attention! Experiencing bleeding gums is common, but if neglected and not treated on time, it leads to adverse consequences like recession, bone loss, mobility, and tooth loss.
Bleeding gums are the classic sign of gum or periodontal disease, but it may also indicate other issues like bruxism, hormonal fluctuations, and diabetes to name a few. The dental team of Whitby Dentist will help you determine the cause and treatment of bleeding gums through this informative blog.
What do bleeding gums indicate?
Bleeding gums are the most classical sign of gingivitis and other forms of gum disease. But bleeding from your duns can also indicate other underlying health issues like hormone changes, vitamin deficiency, blood-clotting disorders, and even stress.
What causes bleeding gums?
There are several reasons why your gums may bleed. These include:
Dental causes
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking
- Gingivitis (early-stage)
- Periodontitis (moderate to advanced forms)
- Trench mouth (severe forms of gum disease)
Other causes
- Improper brushing technique
- Diabetes
- Hormone changes
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Scurvy (a form of vitamin C deficiency)
- Blood thinning medications
- Pernicious anemia
- Hemophilia
- Oral herpes
- HIV
- Leukemia
- Stress
- Dental trauma
| Gingivitis: It is an early form of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, inflamed, and bleeding gums due to the destruction of gum tissues. If left untreated, the condition may aggravate and lead to periodontitis. This is characterized by gum recession, loss of attachment, bone deterioration, mobility, and tooth loss. |
How do dentists treat bleeding gums?
The treatment for bleeding gums depends on the cause. If you experience bleeding gums, consult a dentist or periodontist (gum specialist) for further evaluation
Common gum disease treatments include:
- Improved oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and using antiseptic mouthwash
- Antibiotics
- Scaling and root planing
- Pocket irrigation
- Surgical procedures like gum grafting
- Laser periodontal surgery
How to prevent bleeding gums?
Here are a few tips to prevent bleeding gums at home:
- Brush your teeth twice or thrice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Do not brush aggressively
- Floss once daily
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Avoid smoking
- Consume a healthy, and well-balanced diet
- Ensure you avoid any forms of dental trauma
Final note
Seeing blood in your sink when you brush can be daunting. Bleeding gums can point to gum disease but may also indicate an underlying health condition. If you notice bleeding gums, consult a dentist and discuss the intensity and frequency of the bleeding. Your dentist can find out the cause of bleeding gums and recommend an appropriate treatment plan to get you back on track.
