Though it may be common to experience bleeding gums in your lifetime, it’s not normal or healthy. If you’re noticing blood in the sink after brushing or flossing, there is cause for concern. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis, or gum disease, in an early stage. If left untreated, gingivitis can become a much more serious condition called periodontitis, which impacts the bones that root your teeth. If the bone experiences damage, tooth loss may follow. Although very serious, there are many things you can do to fight gingivitis. Here are just a few things to keep in mind.
Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
Although gums bleeding is very often a sign of gum disease, this is not always the case. Hormonal changes like pregnancy and menopause can also cause some bleeding in the gums, as can a recent injury or blow to the face. If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, we’d like you to let us know. We want to assess the cause so that we can help you treat it appropriately.
If It’s Gingivitis
It may be time to be more diligent about your dental hygiene. We’ll go through the checklist to make sure you’ve got all your bases covered. Are you brushing twice a day for two minutes each time? Are you flossing daily? Are you eating a diet low in refined carbohydrates and sugar? If you answered no to any of those questions, you are at risk for gum disease. It is time to get back on track. Floss, brush, and cut back on sugars and sweets. It may also be helpful to start using a mouthwash specifically designed to prevent gingivitis. If you follow these guidelines, symptoms are likely to improve.
If You’re Still Bleeding
Contact us if symptoms don’t improve after proper care and we’ve ruled out other conditions. We may need to take a closer look or give you better tools for at-home care. Even if you are noticing bleeding, continue to brush and floss daily. Don’t take bleeding gums lightly. They are your mouth’s way of telling you something is wrong.
Discover the Smiles Dental difference today!
Are you ready for the happy, healthy smile of your dreams? When you choose Smiles Dental Services, you’re putting your smile in the hands of highly-trained professionals you can trust. Above all, we provide our patients with leading-edge dentistry that goes above and beyond to deliver high-quality results with a gentle, personal touch.