When Should I be Concerned with Bleeding Gums?
Have you recently noticed your gums are bleeding? Having bleeding gums is commonly not a serious issue. In fact, many adults notice some light bleeding after brushing their teeth or flossing. But gum bleeding can also be a sign of a more serious underlying issue. So when should you be concerned? Here is more information about what causes your gums to bleed and when you should call your dentist.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
Bleeding gums can be caused by a number of different things. Some of the most common reasons that gums may start bleeding include:
- Incorrect/rough brushing of the teeth: Many people brush their teeth aggressively, thinking this will help to get them as clean as possible. However, the gums are sensitive and brushing hard can actually irritate them and cause them to bleed. Try to focus on brushing in a circular motion to help avoid damage to your gums.
- Wrong toothbrush: Many people choose firm/hard bristle toothbrushes thinking that more abrasiveness will help to clean teeth. But in reality, they are more likely to damage the enamel on the teeth and irritate the gums. If you are using a hard bristle toothbrush, try switching to a softer brush and see if your gum health improves.
- Incorrect flossing technique: Using the wrong flossing technique can irritate or cut the gum or cause it to recede. The proper flossing approach is to floss gently, working your way up and down the curve of each tooth. If you are flossing aggressively, consider being gentler and see if the bleeding improves.
- Gum disease: Gum disease is one of the biggest contributors to tooth loss and one of the primary causes of bleeding gums. Gum disease happens when bacteria-filled plaque builds up on the teeth and along the gum line. This plaque irritates the gums, causing inflammation and sometimes bleeding. Gum disease is a progressive condition that may require professional intervention and treatment. The early stages of gum disease can be reversed with additional cleaning and better daily hygiene habits.
When Should You See Your Dentist?
If you have noticed your gums are starting to bleed more frequently when you floss or brush, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist for an exam. For example, if they are bleeding daily for 7-10 days, you should call your dentist. If you also notice that you are experiencing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth you should let your dentist know, as these are additional symptoms of gum disease.
Your dentist will complete a thorough examination to check the health of your gums and help to determine the cause of your bleeding. If your dentist thinks you may have early stage gum disease, they will likely want to schedule you for a professional cleaning. You They will also give you tips on how to treat your bleeding gums and keep your teeth as clean as possible. If your gum disease is more advanced, you may need further dental treatment in addition to a professional cleaning.