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 of 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 buildup 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. You can set up an appointment with us at your earliest convenience.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.
