Bleeding gums are a common oral health problem and may signify a slowly progressing gum disease known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition where the pink tissue around the mouth (gum) is inflamed or irritated.Bleeding gums are quite common, with 46% of all adults in the US showing signs of gum disease. Gum bleeding is usually evident after regular brushing or flossing.
Symptoms of Bleeding Gums and Gingivitis
- Bleeding while gently brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Sore or painful gums
- Swollen, tender, dark red gums
- Receding gums
Causes of Bleeding Gums
Various issues with dental care are the primary cause of bleeding gums. Causes include:
- Tartar And Plaque Buildup: The most common issue that leads to bleeding gums is plaque buildup at the gum line. Plaque buildup, if not removed, hardens into tartar and eventually leads to gingivitis (gum infection characterized by irritated and inflamed gingiva) or periodontitis (infection of the gums, jawbone, and supportive tissues that connect teeth and gums). Plaque buildup over time makes the gums sensitive and prone to bleeding.
- Improper Dental Procedures: Restorations, fillings, or crowns that are not correctly shaped and go below the gum line may cause gum inflammation and bleeding. Inadequately fitting dentures may scratch the gums and irritate them, resulting in bleeding gums. In addition, individuals that do not remove their dentures at night are particularly susceptible to gum bleeding.
- Improper Brushing: Brushing aggressively leads to mechanical gum damage and increases the risks of developing bleeding gums. Also, light brushing without properly brushing along the gumline leads to plaque formation and gum bleeding over time.
- Gum and Tooth Infections: A tooth infection occurs when bacteria reach the tooth’s root through a crack or cavity. As the infection advances, it may get into the gums, causing swelling, pain, or bleeding. Gum bleeding is a common sign of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (gum infection affecting the bone and tissue protecting the teeth).
- Bleeding Disorders Like Hemophilia: Gum bleeding in adults with hemophilia is very common. The oral manifestation of hemophilia can occur in the form of prolonged bleeding from different parts of the oral cavity.
- Pregnancy and Hormonal Fluctuation: Pregnant women may have swollen, red, painful gums that bleed when they attempt to clean or floss their teeth. This occurs due to pregnancy-related hormonal changes affecting gum sensitivity.
Other causes of gum bleeding include medications (blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), stress, smoking, and health conditions (vitamin deficiency, leukemia, and diabetes).
Preventive Measures and Treatments for Gum Bleeding
Maintaining oral health and lowering the risk of illness, decay, or tooth damage are the fundamental goals of preventive dentistry.
The following are proven ways to prevent bleeding gums:
- Improve general dental care: Brush twice a day to properly remove dirt along the gum line to prevent buildup of plaque and tartar. Also, floss regularly and use mouthwash when necessary.
- Adopt a healthy diet through better eating choices with less sugar and fermentable carbohydrates like bread.
- Use a toothbrush with gentle bristles or an electric toothbrush.
- Get regular dental checkups.
Bleeding gums are common and resolve better the earlier treatment starts. Not to mention, regular dental checkups can help ensure better oral health and leave you feeling more confident about your teeth. Book an appointment today at Cedarwood Dentistry to get professional treatment for bleeding gums and gingivitis.
At Cedarwood Dentistry, we cultivate dental health through personalized care. We offer a variety of dental services, including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency care in Midlothian, Virginia. Whether you last visited the dentist six months or six years ago, we can help bring your smile to life. Schedule your dentist appointment today by calling 804-379-9375.