Many people think it is okay for some gum bleeding during brushing or flossing but that is simply not true. Bleeding gums equal unhealthy gums. Periodontal disease can creep up silently attacking your gums and bone in your mouth. This is especially important with recent studies showing gum disease being linked to systemic diseases like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes.
In most cases, inflamed, swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis. However, there are a number of other factors that could be causing your gum problems. Whatever the cause of sore, painful gums, there are steps you can take to minimize gum damage and discomfort. Some people avoid dental cleanings at home or in the dental office because it always makes them bleed. What they need to understand is, that the only reason they are bleeding is because they have become inflamed. Once you have your teeth cleaned and are taught proper oral hygiene techniques, it takes about 2 weeks of bleeding gums before they heal and stop bleeding. You just have to put up with some soreness and tough it out to get results. Once your gums have healed you will be amazed how good they feel, and how the bleeding just stops.
Reasons For Gum Inflammation and Bleeding
-Poor oral hygiene
-Open mouth breathing
-Medication causing tissue overgrowth, or poor healing
-Acid reflux (GERD)
-Poor nutrition
-Systemic Disease
-Hormon irregulaties
-Chemotherapy
-Tobacco use
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal disease
-Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
-Gums that bleed during and after toothbrushing or during flossing.
-Loose teeth
-Shifting of teeth or changes in the way your teeth bite together
-Persistent bad breath (halitosis) or a foul taste in the mouth
-Receding Gums
-Red, swollen, or tender gums
As gingivitis progresses, it develops into periodontitis. This a condition in which the gums and bone that hold the teeth in place can begin to break down. The bacteria on the
teeth release toxic substances that harm your gums and cause them to become infected. The infection and the inflammation that result when your body attacks the bacteria can break down your gums and the bone in your jaw supporting the teeth. You may experience exceptionally swollen, painful gums that are likely to bleed. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
Tips To Prevent Bleeding Gums
–Visit dentist regularly. This should include dental examinations, x-rays, and professional cleanings.
-Brush Twice a Day and follow proper brushing technique. If you’re not sure what to do, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for a quick lesson at your next visit.
-Floss daily. Flossing takes but a minute or two a day to do but the effects are far reaching in terms of keeping you gums healthy.
-Eat a well-balanced nutritious diet.
-Stay Hydrated by Drinking plenty of water.
-Do Not Smoke!
-Relax. Being stressed out raises levels of the stress hormone cortisol, increasing the likelihood of inflammation throughout your body, including in your gums.
Conclusion
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is not a difficult job. It just requires knowing the proper techniques, creating daily habits, and visiting your Oregon City dentist on a regular basis for check ups and professional cleanings. In the long run it will be well worth it as you save your teeth for a lifetime!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR, Inna Shimanovsky, DMD
Dr. Inna Shimanovsky and AAdvanced Dental is a 100% mercury-free general dental practice specializing in advanced cosmetic/reconstructive dentistry and extensive dental care services using the latest science and technology in a caring and pain free environment.
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