Most people have experienced seeing red on the bristles of their toothbrush, or a pink tint in the sink when they expectorate after brushing. It is normal to feel a bit of concern when noticing blood in the mouth because bleeding gums are a symptom commonly associated with gum disease. However, while chronic bleeding gums can be a cause for concern, it is normal for the gums to bleed now and then. Below is a breakdown of possible causes of bleeding gums as well as more information about gum disease.
One of the most serious causes of bleeding gums is gum disease, which occurs when plaque stays too long on the gum lines. To determine if this is the cause of the discomfort, it can be helpful to understand a little more about what gum disease is. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection in the gums. In the early stages, it is called gingivitis, which is an accumulation of hardened tartar near the gum line, which can cause swelling, irritation, and discomfort in the mouth and around the gums. Over time gingivitis can develop into a more serious case of periodontitis, an infection of the jawbone, gums, and the mouth's connective tissues. Periodontitis can be serious and painful, causing gum recession and even tooth loss if left untreated. Other symptoms of gum disease include pain and swelling along the gumline. Over time, affected patients may notice symptoms becoming more extreme. The gums may eventually begin to pull back from the teeth, making them appear longer. Early treatment is key to preventing gum disease from getting worse.
While gum disease is one potential reason that gums may bleed, there are other possible causes to be aware of. Occasionally, gums may simply become irritated, leading to bleeding here and there. This may happen after flossing the teeth overly aggressively or brushing too harshly. If a patient switches to a toothbrush that is too hard for their teeth, bleeding may happen frequently after brushing. Dentures or other restorations for the teeth that were not placed correctly can also lead to irritation in the gums. Certain health conditions, including bleeding disorders, can contribute to bleeding gums. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can result in bleeding gums. Certain blood-thinning medicines like aspirin, heparin, and warfarin can also cause gums to bleed. In less common cases, vitamin deficiencies may be the root cause of sensitive gums. Vitamins C and K can both be helpful in promoting healthy gums. Foods such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, and dark, leafy greens are rich in both of these vitamins and can easily be added to a healthy diet.
If the bleeding in the gums is more sporadic and does not happen often, it can be discussed with a dentist during a routine appointment. If a patient has noticed gum pain and bleeding frequently, it is advisable to schedule an appointment to get these symptoms looked at. Gum disease is most easily treated when it is caught early on. While it can be treated at all stages, treatments for more serious periodontitis are more invasive. Serious damage from prolonged periodontitis, such as lost teeth, may cause permanent changes to the mouth if left unaddressed.
The first step to healthy gums is practicing good dental hygiene. Brushing and flossing frequently with proper technique will prevent plaque from forming at the gum line and reduce the risk of gingivitis. Antiseptic mouthwash is another tool for minimizing plaque. A salt water rinse is an easy way to soothe swollen gums that tend to bleed. A soft-bristled toothbrush is helpful for delicate gums that may experience bleeding after brushing. An electric toothbrush is another useful tool, as the specially designed heads on the toothbrushes are tailored to gently reach the gum line and will often be less abrasive than a traditional toothbrush.
Proper oral hygiene and regular appointments with a dentist can both help prevent gum disease and ensure that if it does begin to develop, it can be treated before it becomes serious. Gingivitis or periodontitis may the underlying reason for gums to frequently hurt, feel swollen, and bleed often. A dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and advise patients on the right course of action to restore the teeth to a healthy state. If the bleeding is less frequent, only occurring once in a while, it is likely nothing serious.
Request an appointment here: https://dental32az.com or call Dental 32 at (602) 466-9906 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Phoenix, AZ.
Gum disease is a serious condition that can result in a need for periodontal treatment. Treatment is needed in order to destroy the infection and prevent it from getting worse. Oftentimes, without treatment, a case of gum disease can become advanced, which can result in tooth loss, receding gums, and even jaw deterioration, all of…
Dental restorations offer ways to remove damaged tooth enamel, halt further decay, and restore the function of damaged or lost teeth. However, some mistaken beliefs prevent people from getting necessary care for oral health. Understand how to separate fact from fiction to make better choices for your dental care.Learn the truth behind the following four…
A dentist’s job is to make sure your teeth stay in great health. For many patients, this means considering the benefits of dental restorations. Dentists recommend restorative procedures when a patient has a damaged, diseased, or missing tooth. These standard treatments stop the problem in its tracks, prevent additional injury and infection, and even provide…
If you have ever gotten a filling or watched someone put in their dentures, you are familiar with the world of dental restorations. Although restorative dentistry focuses primarily on tooth and gum preservation, there is considerable overlap between dental and jaw health. As a result, dental restorations play a significant role in jaw restoration.To better…