If your gums bleed while your brushing or flossing your teeth, it can be due to several different reasons or conditions. Some are more serious than others, but bleeding gums should not be ignored. It could be a sign for a serious condition or it might just be because you are brushing too hard. No matter what the cause, you should discuss it with your dentist to prevent further damage from occurring.

Gingivitis is a big culprit for bleeding gums because your gums are inflamed and irritated. This can be treated by your dentist, so get it checked out immediately. Make sure to clean your teeth thoroughly so plaque build up does not occur, which can lead to more serious conditions such as periodontitis.

Brushing and flossing too hard can also cause bleeding gums. Use a softer bristled brush if this tends to happen to you. Harder bristles can irritate your gums and possibly cause them to swell. While flossing, make sure to gently glide the floss between your teeth and gum line. Do not shove the thread in with one motion. This can damage your gum tissue and cause more bleeding. Instead, use a zigzag motion to carefully and gently floss your teeth.

Other tips which can help prevent bleeding are: avoiding the use of tobacco, taking vitamins, and massaging your gums. Smoking dries the inside of your mouth and can make it vulnerable to sores or abrasions. Taking regular vitamins, especially vitamin K, can help prevent this condition and can maintain the strength of your gums. Massaging your gums gently while you brush can help strengthen them to prevent vulnerability.

If you wear dentures and suffer from bleeding gums, this could mean an improper fit. Your dentures can also cause sores in your mouth and on your gums. If this happens, talk with your dentist about getting new dentures or you might want to consider dental implants.

There are many other types of dental and gum infections that can cause bleeding. Make sure to go to your dentist at least twice a year to get a thorough examination of your teeth. This can help prevent other infections from occurring. No matter what causes your bleeding gums, talk with one of our dentists immediately. They will help you find out what the cause is and will treat your gums properly. Many other conditions can be prevented if you treat the initial problem first.

Dental implants can be a great alternative to dentures. They’re permanent, can be done for one tooth or all, and they look and feel the same way as your natural teeth would. Dentures, however, are removable, can be slightly uncomfortable, and impede in regular activity.

Dentures can slip and move around in your mouth, preventing you from doing regular tasks such as talking or eating. It can be uncomfortable having to wear dentures for long periods of time which can cause your cheek and tongue to struggle when talking and forming words. Chewing certain foods might not be possible with dentures because they can break or chip. Sore spots in your mouth can occur as a result of the pressure and rubbing from the denture. Over time, your bone and mouth tissues shrink, causing the denture to not fit properly.

If your gums and bone structure within your jaw are still healthy and strong, dental implants can be your solution for tooth loss. It is fitted in or on the jawbone with a replacement tooth or bridge and permanently stays in place. The implants look and feel like your regular teeth and you take care of them the same way. Regular brushing and flossing will maintain their quality and ensure their longevity.

Whether you just need to replace one tooth or your whole set, dental implants can restore your smile and confidence. Talk with one of our cosmetic dentists to find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants.