Some people who experience bleeding gums do not think of it as a serious concern. As long as they can eat, smile, or function even with bleeding gums, they would shrug it off. They would pop some Advil and call it quits until it is too late. Bleeding gums is a concern of 60% of Americans—1 in 3 of them ignore it. What some of you may not know is bleeding gums can lead to more serious gum diseases.
Here are the things you need to know about bleeding gums and when you should see your dentist:
When should I be worried about bleeding gums?
Noticing a few streaks of blood on your sink maybe once or twice while brushing your teeth may not be a cause of concern. However, you should schedule a check-up with your dentist if you notice your gum bleeding frequently in a month. All the more that you need to see your dentist if you also experience a foul taste in the mouth and bad breath.
Why are my gums bleeding?
There is a grain of truth to the belief that bleeding gums is common and sometimes harmless. However, it is still better to do a regular check-up with your dentist. Here are some of the reasons why your gums may be bleeding:
Rough brushing
Rough brushing causing bleeding gums might no longer come as a surprise. Some people brush their teeth too hard, thinking that brushing vigorously will leave their teeth sparkling clean. Such brushing techniques will leave our teeth fragile. More than that, our gums can also get irritated by the harsh brushing, causing them to bleed. Our gums are more sensitive than you think.
The proper way of brushing is to brush in a circular motion. This way of brushing your teeth will avoid gum recession and damage.
Using the wrong toothbrush
People also use toothbrushes with solid bristles. They use those kinds of toothbrushes and brush their teeth aggressively—just imagine what damage that does for the gums and teeth! Using firm toothbrushes will not make your teeth cleaner and will even cause the opposite. It can damage your teeth' enamel and irritate the gums. It is more advisable to use soft to medium bristles.
Incorrect flossing technique
Rough and incorrect flossing can also cause bleeding gums. Incorrect flossing can make you nick your gums. It can even be the reason why your gum is receding.
Floss gently and slowly slide the floss up and down. Make sure to follow the curve of your tooth.
Faulty dentures or dental restorations
You may experience bleeding gums if your dentures or dental restorations are faulty. Plaque may collect in the gaps of the dentures, which may result in gum inflammation. Faulty dentures can also scape against your gums, leaving sores and scratches.
Gum disease
About 10% of the world’s population has severe gum or periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is also one of the leading causes of tooth loss in the U.S.A. Periodontal disease destroys the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. Your gums become inflamed, and it pulls away from your teeth’ roots. If you have persistent gum bleeding, gum disease may be the primary cause.
Developing a gum disease is when bleeding gums become serious. Periodontal disease can worsen quickly, which is why it needs treatment as early as possible.
Other diseases related to bleeding gums
Bleeding gums can also be one of the symptoms of other diseases or conditions. Here are some of them:
Gingivitis
Bleeding gums can also be a symptom of gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is a mild phase of periodontal disease. It is one of the most common gum-related diseases.
Plaque buildup at the gum lining is the reason why one develops Gingivitis. Gingivitis will leave your gums red, swollen, and irritated. It may be tender, which is why your gums may bleed as you brush your teeth.
The key to fighting Gingivitis is proper oral care. Brush your teeth 2x a day and do not forget to floss. Use an antibacterial mouthwash when rinsing your mouth every day and schedule regular check-ups with your dentist.
Diabetes
Bleeding gums can also be a symptom of type 1 or 2 diabetes. Diabetes makes it hard for your mouth to fight germs, which is why you will be more susceptible to infections like gum diseases. As your blood sugar heightens, your body’s healing process becomes harder. That is why gum diseases can easily worsen with diabetes.
Thrombocytopenia
Bleeding gums while brushing the teeth can also point to thrombocytopenia. Having this disease means your body finds it hard to form blood clots and stop the bleeding because of platelet deficiency. This disease causes bleeding in other parts of your body.
Leukemia
Bleeding gums can also be one of the effects of leukemia. A patient with leukemia has low platelet count—cells that help the body to stop bleeding. One who has leukemia will find it hard to stop the bleeding in any part of their body.
Scurvy
Scurvy is a rare disease. Severe lack of vitamin C may result in this disease, which is usually the case for those with poor nutrition. Scurvy causes weakness and anemia. It can also lead to patients bleeding under their skin. Bleeding gums is one of the symptoms of scurvy.
Schedule a regular dental check-up
It can be tricky to tell if your bleeding gums are just due to your harsh brushing or an underlying disease. Be it serious or not, bleeding gums can result in periodontal disease or any other gum disease without immediate dental care and treatment. That is why regular check-ups with your trusted dentist are a must.
If you are looking for professional and top-notch dental care in Southern California, you can contact Cunning Dental Group! Trips to the dentist can cause anxiety to others. With Cunning Dental Group, you will feel at home as dentists treat you like a family! Schedule a consultation now and keep your gum and teeth healthy!
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