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If your gums are bleeding, it could mean that you have some serious dental issues that must be addressed immediately. Our dentists in Hampton are here to help you understand how to stop bleeding gums, and also give you advice on when to seek further medical attention.
Bleeding Gums - What are they and what do they mean?
Bleeding gums after brushing is not normal, but many Canadians ignore it, thinking it's not a big deal. However, this is a mistake. You should take action as soon as possible to address bleeding or inflamed gums, even if they don't hurt yet.
Understanding Causation - How could I end up with bleeding gums?
While occasionally bleeding gums can happen when dentures fit too tightly or if you brush your teeth too hard. However, if you notice bleeding more often, it could be a sign of a more serious problem like gum disease or dental issues.
Gingivitis & Periodontitis - What are they and what do they have to do with bleeding gums?
If you don't brush and floss your teeth properly, bacteria in your mouth can form a sticky layer on your gum line called plaque, which can harden into tartar faster.
The first stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, can cause swollen, painful, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to a more severe stage called periodontitis.
Periodontitis can infect the tissues and bones that support your teeth and gums, which can cause tooth and bone loss.
In some cases, you may need to have teeth removed to treat this condition.
Bleeding While Brushing - What should I do next if my gums bleed during brushing?
If you notice bleeding gums, it's important to see your dentist right away to check your oral health. However, you can also do some things at home to prevent and treat bleeding gums. Although this article won't cover everything, following these steps can help reduce any risks. Some of these steps include:
- Brush after each meal and before bed with a soft toothbrush and gentle fluoride toothpaste. You may experience increased bleeding at first, but the extra attention to oral hygiene can help the bleeding gums heal more efficiently in the longer run.
- Floss a minimum of once per day. Be sure to keep your floss somewhere highly visible, to help increase your likelihood of remembering to floss and protect your dental hygiene.
- Consider an electric toothbrush to help you clean your mouth more easily. Many electric toothbrushes have sensors to help communicate when you've done enough brushing, which is yet another reason using them often correlates with having fewer dental health problems.
- Rinse thoroughly with an anti-gingivitis, alcohol-free mouthwash. You can pick up a mouthwash that fits this description at your local pharmacy. Ask the pharmacist if you're unsure what you're looking for.
- See your dentist every 6 months and let them know of any changes, soreness, or sensitivity. Nothing is more effective than regular checkups with a professional when it comes to ensuring good oral health. Your dentist will not only provide a cleaning but also fully investigate to make sure your mouth is not currently afflicted by any manner of oral diseases - including gingivitis and periodontitis.
Your dentist is a critical ally in the daily battle against gum disease and other oral health issues, like a load-bearing pillar holding up a temple called "improving your oral hygiene". So, regular professional cleanings are important. He or she can also provide tips on proper oral hygiene, brushing, and flossing techniques to reach the more challenging spots in your mouth.
Depending on the cause of your bleeding gums, your dentist may take new dental impressions to ensure you have correctly fitting dentures or prescribe a vigorous dental care routine that can put you back on the track to good gum health.