Solutions To Common Dental Problems
Bleeding Gums
Are your gums sore and bleeding?
This may occur when brushing or is associated with sore teeth or gums. Your gums may bleed without brushing, or you feel they are bleeding for no reason.
Bleeding gums may be a small issue or may indicate that there is something more that needs to be investigated.
Healthy gums are generally not inflamed, tender, swollen or bleeding. If your gums bleed, it is best to have them checked out.
Why Gums Bleed
Gums may bleed for many reasons. They are a common occurrence. The cause of your gums bleeding can be as simple as having been too rigorous with your brushing and flossing, to a serious medical or oral health condition. It could also be a sign that you need to improve your dental health care so you keep on top of plaque building up on your teeth and in your gum line.
Gums that bleed are sometimes accompanied by bad breath or mucus. Some of the common reasons include:
- gum disease
- dry mouth
- side effects to medication - such as blood thinners and anti inflammatory medicine.
- pregnancy
- recently had braces applied
- irritation from brushing and flossing
- just had oral surgery/dental treatment and gums are still tender from the procedure. This should be only temporary and occurs where there has been an incision in the gum. The best method to manage this bleeding is applying pressure on the gum with a clean cloth or gauze
- tobacco
- vitamin deficiencies
- trauma or injury to the mouth
Gum Disease and Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease. You have developed gum disease your gums become more sensitive and more susceptible to bleeding.
Also known as gingivitis (inflamed gums) and periodontitis (advanced gingivitis), gum disease is where plaque (bacteria and food debris) remains on the teeth and gums.
With good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing and regular check-ups and professional cleanings. This not only helps prevent cavities developing but removes plaque from teeth and gums which reduces the risk of gum disease. If the plaque remains, it hardens and can lead to the inflammation of the gums and eventual breakdown of the gum tissue and gums. This is known as gingivitis.
When gingivitis remains untreated it advances into an infection, spreading to the jawbone and connective tissues (tissues that hold your teeth and gums in place). At this stage you may see an increase in the frequency and severity of the bleeding. Eventually, the resulting periodontitis can cause the teeth to loosen and even lead to tooth loss
FAQs About Bleeding Gums
The most common reason for your gums bleeding is that there is plaque and tartar build-up at the gum line.
If untreated it may lead to gum disease. There are also other reasons for gums bleeding such as:
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Your taking blood thinners
- You are too rigorous with your brushing or flossing
- There is infection of the tooth and gum
- Your toothbrush is too hard
- Tooth demineralisation
It could be an indicator of periodontal disease, which is an advanced stage of gum disease. If not treated properly, this could lead to further health and dental issues.
There are also other health reasons that could lead to bleeding gums such as:
- poor nutrition
- chronic health conditions such as diabetes
- fungal and viral infections
Gums that bleed should not be ignored.
The treatment for gums that bleed depends on the condition of your teeth and gums and the bleeding you are experiencing.
Where you have not lost any gum or bone, and there is a low level build up of plaque or tartar a scale and cleaning may be sufficient. This will give the gums chance to heal without further intervention.
If there is gum or bone loss, or there is more expansive damage, more intervention may be required over a longer period. Your treatment will target the bacteria that are compromising your gums and teeth, and remove the build up of plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
Bleeding gums are not normal at any age.
If the problem is chronic, occurs frequently or even just occasionally, it is important to see a dentist.
Preventative Dentistry and Bleeding Gums
You can minimise or prevent your gums bleeding by ensuring you maintain good oral care practices and dental health. These include:
- brushing you teeth twice daily and flossing to remove plaque from teeth and gum lines
- have a professional deep cleaning twice a year
- using a soft toothbrush that is less abrasive and is gentle on the gums. Vigorous brushing can damage the delicate tissues in the gums
- ensure an effective brushing technique. Your technique should be gentle and the brush rotated in a circular motion. It is important not to damage your tooth’s enamel. Soft bristles and a gentle technique will minimise aggravation of the gums and avoid redness, swelling and gum recession. Consult with your dentist to get advice on brushing and flossing and the right technique for you.
If your gums bleed you should have the health of your gums reviewed and have professional treatment.
The only way to determine the cause of your bleeding gums is through an examination.
To find out more about treating your bleeding gums, call our friendly staff at Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic on (08) 8268 5422 or request an appointment online.
