Don’t Ignore Bleeding Gums
May 23, 2008
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gum Disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. The two stages of gum disease are called gingivitis and periodontitis.Bleeding gums are a sign that you may be at risk of dental or periodontal disease.
Bleeding gums can mean gingivitis, the top dental problem for people over 18, or indicate serious medical conditions whose symptoms just happen to show up in the mouth.
Inflammation of the gums may develop if your gums tend to bleed. These symptoms could be a precursor of a disease of the gum and jawbone called periodontitis
Symptoms of Bleeding Gums:
1. Gingivitis causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when the teeth are brushed.
2. Irritation and pain in the gums
3. Bleeding
4. Secretion of pus
5. Swelling
Causes of Bleeding Gums:
Bleeding gums aren’t always a result of dental neglect. Other causes may include an infection, vitamin deficiency, leukemia, brushing too vigorously, certain medications like blood thinners, ill-fitting dentures, or hormonal imbalances. So, it‘s a good idea to get the rest of your body checked out to rule out hidden reasons for your illness.
While heredity and other medical factors can influence the development of bleeding gums, the major cause is poor oral hygiene. Food trapped under the gums combines with bacteria to create plaque that irritates the gums and makes them bleed.
Be sure you don’t have ill-fitting dentures or partials that might be causing your bleeding gums. Other sources of the problem can be medication like antihistamines, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and oral contraceptives. Diabetes and pregnancy can even play a role in bleeding gums.
Harmful effects of Bleeding Gums:
Bleeding gums could signal the ulceration and swelling of Trench Mouth or tissue destruction.
Healthy immune systems normally fight off the bacteria developing in the mouth. When this protection is compromised in any way, the added bacteria in the bloodstream appear to increase the risk of stroke or heart disease.
Irreversible Periodontitis and likely tooth loss.
Listed below are some tips to prevent Bleeding Gums:
1. Floss at least once a day.
2. Brush twice a day.
3. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three or four months.
4. Quit smoking as tobacco use is one of the biggest risk factors for gum disease.
5. A healthy diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains will keep your immune system at top form protecting your whole body, including your mouth.
6. Avoid sweets and sugars that stick.
7. Make it a habit to clean your mouth after every meal or sweet that you have taken.



























