Many people focus on preventing teeth cavities, but they forget about gum care. Gums play a significant role in dental health and overall well-being. This is why you ought to be very concerned if you’re asking yourself: why are my gums bleeding? Gum disease is the number one cause of bleeding or swollen gums.
For the correct diagnosis and treatment, seek medical attention at a dental facility that offers a variety of treatment options, such as:
- General dentistry procedures
- Oral surgery
- Orthodontics services
- Dental veneer options
- CEREC
However, other factors can cause gum disease. Whatever the cause, there are tips you can use to minimize the bleeding and discomfort.
Brushing and Flossing Techniques
When cleaning your teeth, you might brush vigorously to get them sparkling. The tissue that makes the gum is delicate so that a wrong brushing technique will cause damage.
Whether you choose an electric or a manual toothbrush, ensure that the bristles are soft with blunt ends. Avoid brushes with hard bristles as they’ll damage not only your gums but also your teeth’s enamel.
Clean your teeth and gums using gentle, circular motions. If you use the normal back-and-forth motion, you’ll irritate your gums.
Flossing is beneficial as it enables you to remove plaque you can’t reach with your toothbrush. Be gentle when flossing to avoid bleeding or swollen gums. Instead of forcing the floss string up and down your teeth, carefully slide it while following the teeth’s curves.
Why Are My Gums Bleeding? What You Need to Know About Gum Disease
In the US, about 47% of adults aged 30 years and above have periodontal (gum) disease. Most people suffer from a less severe form of gum disease known as gingivitis.
When you don’t observe proper dental hygiene, the bacteria may cause inflammation to your gums, which results in swelling or bleeding. For gingivitis, the swelling is not painful. You can reverse the effects of gingivitis by practicing proper oral hygiene if you catch the symptoms early.
However, seek medical attention if you experience any severe symptoms, such as:
- Deep pockets forming between the gums and teeth
- Bleeding of gums during and after brushing
- Shifting or loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
- Tender or swollen gums
Once you start asking, why are my gums bleeding, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis. This disease weakens the bones and gums that hold your teeth in place. Periodontitis leads to teeth loss if left untreated.
Visit a Dentist for Treatment
Make an appointment with a dentist if your gums continue to bleed even after you’ve changed your oral care routine. A dentist will examine your teeth and gums to establish the presence of any advanced gum disease. You may get an x-ray of your gums and teeth may if periodontal surgery or deep cleaning is necessary.
With proper dental care and treatment, bleeding gums will be a thing of the past. You’ll no longer be asking, why are my gums bleeding? Take back control of your life. Call us today at 614.363.2462 for more information.
