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Bleeding gums can point to complications with dental health, many of which are quite severe and will need immediate attention. Today, our Victoria dentists explain how to prevent and treat bleeding gums and provide guidance on when there is cause for more serious concern.
Bleeding Gums - What are they and what do they mean?
Contrary to popular belief, brushing should not normally lead to bleeding gums. Still, many Canadians experience bleeding from brushing and might shrug it off as not being that important or demanding immediate attention. Generally, this is a mistake. It's best to take quick action as soon as possible to addressed inflamed or bleeding gums, whether they are accompanied by pain or not.
Understanding Causation - How could I end up with bleeding gums?
Occasionally, bleeding gums can be due to wearing dentures that fit too tightly or brushing your teeth too aggressively, more frequent gum bleeding can also be an indicator more serious conditions or dental health issues such as gum disease.
Gingivitis & Periodontitis - What are they and what do they have to do with bleeding gums?
When you don't brush and floss correctly, plaque accumulates on the gum line and can harden into tartar at a faster rate. The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and can cause your gums to become sore and puffy, Eventually, they'll bleed. Gingivitis may progress into more serious diseases.
Periodontitis is the second, more serious stage of gum disease. This infection of the tissues and bones that connect your gums to your teeth can eventually lead to bone and tooth loss. Progression to this point can also lead to certain teeth becoming infected with more serious diseases.
Bleeding While Brushing - What should I do next if my gums bleed during brushing?
Though you should visit your dentist at the first sign of bleeding gums so your periodontal health can be evaluated, you can take some measures at home to prevent and treat bleeding gums. These steps are numerous, and this article is not comprehensive, but adopting the following steps can greatly minimize potential hares. These steps include including:
- 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.