Bleeding Gums FAQ
I've noticed that my gums bleed every time I floss? Is this normal?
No, bleeding gums are sure signs of poor dental hygiene. Bleeding gums are also telltale symptoms of gingivitis and gum (periodontal) disease. If you notice that your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, this means that you need to brush and floss more often and more thoroughly. You should also have your teeth cleaned regularly. Over time, with continued brushing and flossing, your bleeding gums should subside. (In rare cases, you will not notice a difference, at which point you must consider other reasons for bleeding gums such as leukemia, bleeding disorders, platelet disorders, or overmedication with anticoagulants ("blood thinners").)
What causes bleeding gums?
Bleeding gums are caused by inadequate plaque removal at the gum line. Eventually, plaque buildup in this location will lead to gingivitis, or gum inflammation. If this plaque is not removed, it will harden into tartar. Ultimately, this will cause severe bleeding gums and a more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.
What is the best way to prevent bleeding gums?
Usually, when gums bleed excessively during a professional teeth cleaning, your dentist knows that you are not brushing thoroughly enough. Often, people focus only on the teeth and not on the gums when brushing their teeth, but both are equally important. This is an attractive reason to switch from a manual toothbrush to an electric one, so that bleeding gums may be adequately massaged. Over time, especially when brushing regularly with an electric toothbrush, you will notice that your gums become less sensitive and more receptive to gum massage. However, be sure not to overdo it, as aggressive brushing can lead to excessive bleeding gums for the opposite reason.
What are some other easy ways I can treat my bleeding gums at home?
In order to minimize bleeding gums:
-Brush your teeth after every meal.
-Floss at least once a day to prevent bacteria from building up.
-Decrease the amount of sugar in your diet. Sugar promotes the buildup of plaque.
-Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a routine checkup and professional cleaning.
-Use a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, an anti-microbial agent.
-Avoid tobacco, which aggravates bleeding gums.
In closing, dental hygiene is important for so many reasons. There is an old saying that "To keep your teeth, take care of your gums". This is very true, and your dentist should be able to go over these methods with you in person in order to show you the right amount of massage and care you should take for your bleeding gums. If you notice bleeding gums while brushing or flossing, you should schedule an appointment at our offices so that we may discuss a dental hygiene gameplan for you. Do not hesitate to call our offices at 888.790.0309.
