Have you ever brushed your teeth and noticed that your gums are bleeding? Have you ever made your gums bleed by flossing?
Whether your mind jumps to worst-case scenarios or not, there could be several reasons why your gums bleed.
Here are five reasons why your gums could be bleeding and how to treat them so your smile can remain happy and healthy!
Brushing your teeth too hard
Brushing your teeth too hard can cause your gums to bleed.
Surprisingly, too much of a good thing can turn into a bad thing. This one is an easy fix, though! If your gums bleed after you brush your teeth, consider brushing your teeth using a gentler touch.
You should also consider purchasing toothbrushes with softer bristles, so it is easier on your gums, especially if they are sensitive.
With softer bristles and a softer touch, your gums should stop bleeding within a week. If they continue to bleed, tell your doctor immediately so you can investigate any underlying causes for your bleeding gums.
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common reasons for bleeding gums is poor hygiene. According to the CDC, adults should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day.
You should also use mouthwash after brushing your teeth. Mouthwash washes away any remaining plaque from your teeth and fights against tooth decay and gum disease.
Effective mouthwash should contain ingredients such as fluoride, antimicrobials, peroxide, and astringent salt. These ingredients help with bad breath, staining, and fight against bacteria that could cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Another way to maintain proper hygiene is to visit your dentist at least every six months. Your dentist thoroughly cleans your teeth and can detect any problems or developing problems at an early stage.
Gingivitis or Gum Inflammation
Continual poor oral hygiene could lead to gum diseases like gingivitis. Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, is a mild gum disease that is caused by a buildup of plaque along the gumline.
If you have gingivitis you may experience irritated, red, or swollen gums. Luckily, gingivitis is only a mild gum disease and can be treated easily.
Simply improving your oral hygiene can fight against this gum disease and stop it from progressing to a more aggressive gum disease like periodontitis.
Some at-home remedies include salt water, mouthwash, and improving your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing every day.
You should see your dentist if:
- These at-home remedies don’t work within a week
- Your gums are excessively bleeding
- Your gums are swollen or the swelling has gotten worse
- Your have tooth pain
Periodontitis
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe gum disease known as periodontitis. Like gingivitis, periodontitis happens when plaque builds up along the gumline.
If you have periodontitis, you may experience inflamed gums, tooth sensitivity, bright red or purple gums, receding gums, bleeding gums, bad breath due to bleeding, and loose teeth.
The symptoms of periodontitis are similar but more severe than signs of gingivitis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.
The best way to fight against periodontitis is to brush your teeth and floss daily. If your gums are bleeding, don’t avoid brushing your teeth even if it hurts. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles so you don’t further irritate the sensitive area around your gums.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Women who are pregnant can be susceptible to gingivitis. This is due to a change in hormones. Good oral hygiene is essential when you are pregnant.
Meet with your dentist at least once during your pregnancy and discuss any concerns you might have. It’s best to catch early signs of pregnancy gingivitis so you can treat it.
If left untreated it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis during pregnancy could cause preterm birth.
The good news is that you can fight against this by practicing good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth gently twice a day, especially after experiencing morning sickness
- Floss once a day
- Use a warm salt water mouth rinse if gums are sensitive
- Meet with your dentist
How Cobblestone Park Family Dental Can Help You!
Here at Cobblestone Park Family Dental, we’re dedicated to you and your oral health. We care about you and your smile.
During the holiday season, many people experience gum and tooth pain due to high intake of sugar and poor oral hygiene. If you experience any toothaches or pain in your mouth this season, be sure to schedule an appointment with our dedicated team.
At Cobblestone Park Family Dental, our dental professionals are ready to help. Schedule an appointment at our Oklahoma City office by calling (405) 603-8520.