Many of you experience bleeding gums at some point in your lives. It is estimated that around half of all adults have bleeding gums. While it is usually nothing to worry about, it can signify gum disease. Your mouth is a medium for chewing foods, making it a place for various bacteria. If oral health teeth are not appropriately maintained, bleeding gums can quickly occur. Here are the five common causes of bleeding gums and what you can do to prevent them.
Gingivitis
It is the medical term for inflammation of the gums. It is the first stage of periodontal disease and is characterized by gums that are red, swollen, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is a typical result of a build-up of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky layer formed by bacteria, food debris, and saliva. If it remains, this plaque can harden and turn into tartar which can only be removed by a dental professional. Gingivitis is usually reversible with good oral hygiene. It involves brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly. Also, plan regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings.
Smoking
It is one of the primary causes of gum disease. If you smoke, your risk for developing gum disease is much higher than someone who does not smoke. Smoking can make it harder to treat gum disease once it develops. If you notice that your gums are bleeding, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. Your gums may bleed when brushing your teeth or flossing if you have this disease.
Medications And Hormones
Your gums may bleed more quickly if you are on blood thinners or medications that can cause abnormal bleeding. Fluctuations in estrogen levels during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause make them more sensitive. Our dental care team can help you determine the cause of your bleeding gums and develop a treatment plan. We may recommend more frequent cleanings, special mouth rinses, and other treatments if you have gum disease.
Dentist DC • Neil Starr, DDS, PC • Dental Blog Dr. Starr is offering this educational blog as a resource to our patients. Our hope is hope that our blog will cover subjects that you may be interested in. Neil L. Starr, DDS, PC, 1234 19th St NW #306, Washington, DC 20036 ^ (202) 293-7177 ^ starrteeth.com ^ 12/1/2023 ^ Page Keywords: dental implants DC ^
Many of you experience bleeding gums at some point in your lives. It is estimated that around half of all adults have bleeding gums. While it is usually nothing to worry about, it can signify gum disease. Your mouth is a medium for chewing foods, making it a place for various bacteria. If oral health teeth are not appropriately maintained, bleeding gums can quickly occur. Here are the five common causes of bleeding gums and what you can do to prevent them.
