Gum disease may be present if your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, which can result in foul breath, irritation, receding gums, and finally tooth loss.
Gum bleeding is an indicator that there is a problem that has to be addressed by a dental hygienist. At the same time, it is not a major issue for most people.
Most often, bleeding gums are a symptom of gingivitis, a condition you may have heard of but may not fully understand. When the plaque that surrounds the teeth is not completely cleaned, gingivitis develops. The millions of bacteria in this plaque irritate the gums, causing swelling and bleeding. While a distinct ailment, halitosis, or bad breath, is also likely to be an unintended side effect of this plaque build-up.
Causes of Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums can be caused by various factors, including:
- Gingivitis: The most common cause, gingivitis is inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup, resulting in bleeding during brushing or flossing.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and bacteria buildup, increasing the risk of gum bleeding.
- Medications: Some medications, like blood thinners, can contribute to gum bleeding as a side effect.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as blood disorders, diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies can affect gum health and cause bleeding.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can make gums more susceptible to bleeding.
- Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system and damages gum tissues, making them more likely to bleed.
- Dental Appliances: Ill-fitting dentures or braces can irritate gums, leading to bleeding.
- Stress: Chronic stress can weaken the body’s immune response and exacerbate gum issues.
- Infections: Gum infections, like periodontal disease, can result in gum bleeding as the condition progresses.
Gingivitis vs Periodontitis
Gingivitis and periodontitis are both oral health conditions that affect the gums, but they differ in terms of severity and progression:
Gingivitis
- Gingivitis is the milder of the two conditions.
- It is characterised by inflammation of the gums (gingiva) caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria on the teeth.
- Common symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums, especially during brushing or flossing.
- Gingivitis is usually a result of poor oral hygiene practices.
- It is typically reversible with proper dental care, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings.
- If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.
Periodontitis
- Periodontitis is a more advanced and severe form of gum disease.
- It occurs when gingivitis is left untreated, allowing the infection to spread deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, including the bone.
- Symptoms may include persistent bad breath, receding gums, pockets forming between the teeth and gums, and potential tooth mobility.
- Periodontitis can lead to irreversible damage to the bone and tooth loss.
- Treatment for periodontitis typically involves more intensive dental procedures, such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery.
- Ongoing maintenance and improved oral hygiene practices are crucial to managing and preventing the recurrence of periodontitis.
How to Minimise Gum Bleeding
The best course of action is to consult your dentist as soon as you can, regardless of what you believe may be the reason for your bleeding gums. The best technique to stop your gums from bleeding can be suggested after they examine your symptoms.
Additionally, there are a few easy actions you might want to take when it comes to treating bleeding gums – changes to your oral hygiene regimen that could help prevent the issue from getting worse. These actions should be taken on a daily basis as opposed to only when you spit blood, in order for them to be effective:
#1. Brush your teeth regularly and use specialised toothpaste that is effective at removing the primary cause of your bleeding gums.
#2. Make sure to focus on the gum line when using a manual or electric toothbrush with a tiny head and soft, rounded bristles.
#3. Remove plaque by flossing or using interdental brushes.
#4. Gum disease can be treated and prevented by using mouthwash.
#5. Regular dental visits will help your dentist detect any gum issues before you notice any symptoms. If you do suffer gum bleeding, let your dentist know right away so they can help you manage it before it gets worse.
The Issue Won’t Resolve Itself
It is recommended to have your gums examined, even if only to rule out more serious periodontitis, if you have bleeding gums. Although we would want to say that you only need to have them checked and cleaned once, experience has taught us that this is not the case. At the very least, you can take precautions to lessen the likelihood of a return; quitting smoking significantly enhances oral health.
We kindly remark that the topic is irrelevant as we began this discussion by asking if bleeding gums are usual. You should get your gums checked out and treated for bleeding, regardless of whether they are typical or at least common. Anderson & Broadberry Dental Care has rich experience and a commitment to putting the needs of our patients first. Please get in contact if you need a dentist or hygienist in Swallownest, Sheffield. No matter who you choose as your dentist, make sure to have those bleeding gums checked!
Why Choose Anderson & Broadberry Dental Care for Hygienist Services?
Choose us for your dental hygienist services and experience the benefits of exceptional care and a healthier smile.
- Experienced Professionals: Our team consists of highly skilled and experienced dental hygienists who prioritise your oral health.
- Comprehensive Cleanings: We provide thorough and personalised dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, ensuring your gums and teeth are in top condition.
- Preventive Care: Our services focus on preventive care, helping you avoid gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues.
- Patient Education: We take the time to educate you on proper oral hygiene practices, empowering you to maintain a healthy smile between visits.
- Comfortable Environment: Our clinic offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a stress-free and pleasant experience.
- Advanced Technology: We utilise state-of-the-art dental technology to enhance the effectiveness and comfort of our services.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Each patient receives a customised treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and concerns.
- Convenient Scheduling: We offer flexible appointment scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle.
- Affordable Pricing: Our dental hygienist services are competitively priced with routine examination from £60 only, making it accessible for everyone to maintain their oral health.
- Commitment to Your Smile: Your smile’s health and appearance are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
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