Bleeding Gums

By Author: autor
Total Articles: 4328
Comment this article

Bleeding of the gums is a medical condition that needs immediate attention. Even if it is easy to ignore, it may be a sign of developing or advanced gum disease, or a symptom of a serious underlying condition. The bleeding of the gums can occur when you brush or floss, or at any other time. It can be light, moderate, or severe, and it usually continues as long as it is not addressed medically. When addressed early, chances are its causes can be eliminated fast, and at a fraction of the cost of a later intervention.

Causes

Bleeding gums are most often caused by the plaque accumulation at the gum line. When plaque is not removed through brushing, flossing and periodic professional dental care, it hardens and turns into tartar. Tartar is a calcified deposit that irritates the gums and may cause their inflammation and bleeding. These are both symptoms of gingivitis, a gum disease that, left untreated, may lead to a chronic and dangerous disease of the gums and jawbone called periodontitis.

Flossing and brushing too hard can also damage your gums and lead to the opposite result than the one expected. In addition ...
... to inadequate oral hygiene, bleeding gums may be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, medication, chemotherapy drugs, other bleeding and autoimmune disorders, vitamin K deficiencies, and use of tobacco products.

Potential complications

You would not ignore your symptoms if your arm or leg bled daily. For the same reason, you should not ignore the bleeding of your gums. Beyond the fact that these may be symptoms of a serious medical condition, they may also lead to an array of other complications. First, untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and permanent damage to your jawbone. Second, when your gums bleed, harmful bacteria that form in your mouth have free access to your bloodstream, and can create other medical problems, at first hard to relate to the condition of your gums: heart attacks, digestive and respiratory problems, diabetes or even pancreatic cancer.

Diagnosis

The first step in managing your bleeding gums is to visit a dentist or periodontist. Your doctor will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Usually, this involves measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums, and taking an X-ray of your teeth and jaw. These can be accompanied by questions related to your oral hygiene regimen, diet, medication and other medical conditions.

Prevention and Treatment

In order to avoid problems related to bleeding of the gums, it is imperative that you follow a good oral care program. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal. Use a soft brush, which will stop you from brushing too aggressively. Floss daily, following the natural contour of your teeth. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash. You can also consider an oral irrigation device that helps you reach deep between your teeth and low along the tooth line. Pay regular visits to your dentist and have a dental cleaning at least every 6 months, or every 3 months if you have already developed gum disease.

If treated earlier, gum disease can be reversed. However, if your gingivitis has progressed into periodontal disease, all you can do is stop it and control it before it does any more damage to your teeth, gums and bones. Periodontitis is not a disease you can manage without professional help. It is very important that you respect the treatment that your doctor designs for you. This may include, besides a perfect oral hygiene program, antibiotics, regular deep cleanings, or using toothpaste that can control infection. Do not underestimate the value of a good diet, drinking plenty of water, and a relaxation regimen that can help you balance your hormone levels.

Do not consider your bleeding gums normal because they do not hurt or because you had them for a long time. You should not take gum disease lightly. Researchers have discovered that 4 in 5 patients with heart disease also have gum disease. Visit us today and avoid becoming a number in these statistics.