Do your gums bleed when you floss? Then its probably time to change your dental care routine. This does not mean that your mouth is unclean. It just shows that plaque is accumulating beneath the gum line and you need to floss more often to prevent severe consequences. When you first start to floss, it is common for gums to bleed. It is not considered to be a problem if the bleeding stops quickly. While it may seem like the opposite of what you should do, you simply need to continue flossing regularly.
What your bleeding gums could mean
The primary reason behind bleeding gums is inadequate removal of plaque. Plaque contains many different types of germs that attack the healthy gum tissues surrounding the teeth. When plaque accumulates, the gums become irritate and inflamed. This causes the gums to bleed when you floss or brush. This is known as gingivitis – the first stage of gum disease.
Gingivitis is generally a painless condition and cal only be identified by bleeding gums. Some other indicators of gingivitis include tender, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, metallic taste or a change in the way your teeth fit when your bit. When at this stage, gum disease can be treated and reversed. This is why you should never ignore bleeding gums.
Plaque accumulation and periodontitis
When not removed, the plaque eventually causes the gums to separate. You will notice that the gums start to slowly recede from the teeth. When gums start to recede, they form pockets gaps between the gums and the teeth where bacteria can breed. The harmful bacteria attack the gums and bones that support the teeth. Eventually, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar.
By this point, gingivitis has transitioned into a more serious condition known as Periodontitis – which can cause bone and tooth loss. Periodontitis can also lead to other severe problems such as drifting of teeth, exposure of teeth roots and painful abscesses. Periodontitis is even linked to serious health conditions such as increased diabetes risk and heart diseases as well as heightened chances of pregnancy complications.
Other reasons and diseases behind bleeding gums
One of the leading causes of gum disease in gum disease or Periodontitis. But gum disease has also been linked to severe heath concerns such as heart diseases, cancer, stroke and type 1or type 2 diabetes. It is believed by medical professionals that the inflammation caused by gum disease may be the reason behind this connection between periodontitis and other health conditions. This is why it is even more necessary to not ignore your bleeding gums.
Other reasons behind bleeding gums that are less common include – deficiency of Vitamin C or Vitamin K in the body, inflamed gums caused by pregnancy, scurvy, hemophilia and others. To know more about conditions that can lead to gum blessing, please refer to this article.
How Can I Get my Gums to Stop Bleeding?
If you spot any of these signs of gum bleeding or gum disease, see you dentist right away for a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. They will draft a diligent oral care routine that will help you get your gums back to good health again.
Here are some things you can do to prevent and treat bleeding gums:
- Brush after each meal and before bedtime
- Use a gentle fluoride toothpaste
- Clean in between your teeth with floss
- Rinse with a mouthwash
- See your dentist at least every six months for regular cleanings and check-ups
Practicing good oral health is the first and most important step to prevent bleeding gums and any consequences arising from it. Periodontal Treatment In Gilbert AZ and diligent oral care will ensure that your gums are healthy. If you find your gums bleeding when you floss, contact Island Dental for a cleaning.
