When Should I Be Concerned with Bleeding Gums
During their lifetime, most adults will experience bleeding gums to a certain degree at some point. While a small amount of blood might not seem like a serious medical concern, bleeding gums may be a warning sign of more serious dental issues and should not be ignored.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
There are several different factors that can lead to bleeding gums. Amongst the more common causes of gum bleeding include:
Improper Brushing Techniques: In an effort to get the teeth as clean as possible, many people incorrectly assume that the teeth need to be brushed vigorously. Because the gum tissue is very sensitive, it can easily become scratched if brushing is overaggressive. This can lead to irritation, gum recession, and bleeding. To avoid damaging the periodontal tissues, brushing should be in a gentle circular motion.
Wrong Toothbrush: Similar to the incorrect assumption that brushing should be aggressive, people also believe that using toothbrushes with hard bristles is ideal for keeping the teeth clean. This is also incorrect because hard bristles can damage the tooth enamel and irritate the gums. Soft or medium bristles should be used instead to avoid damage.
Improper Flossing Practice: The correct flossing technique can take a while to get used to for some people. For some, the wrong technique is used which can cause cuts in the gums or lead to gum recession. Flossing should be gentle by following the curve of the teeth up and down.
Periodontal Disease: A major contributor to tooth loss and bleeding gums, gum disease is amongst the more common medical issues in the United States. Gum disease is a condition that progresses and without professional intervention, will continue to get worse.
More on Gum Disease
It is so common that almost everyone experiences gum disease at some point in life. Because the initial symptoms are quite mild in the earliest stages, patients often overlook them until the disease has progressed and symptoms have a bigger impact on their life. The earliest stage, known as gingivitis, is characterized by symptoms that include bleeding gums and bad breath.
If left untreated, gingivitis will further progress and develop into a more serious condition called periodontitis. This advanced form of gum disease is linked to a host of serious issues that affect both dental and general health including abscesses, tooth loss, jawbone loss, lung infections, and cardiovascular disease.
When to Consult a Dentist
If blood is noticed on multiple occasions throughout a month when brushing the teeth, it is advisable to schedule a check-up with a dentist. This is especially true if the bleeding is accompanied by persistent bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth.
A dentist will perform a thorough examination of the patient’s gums and teeth to determine the severity of gum disease. This will most likely be accompanied by a professional cleaning to remove any plaque buildups. The dentist will also provide instructions on how to keep the mouth as clean as possible in an effort to prevent gum disease from returning.