You look into the sink, and it looks like it could be blood after brushing your teeth, questioning the origin. The leading source, bleeding gums, is a widespread problem for several reasons. Many adult Americans will have bleeding gums at some point during their adult lifetime.
Although a hint of blood may not seem like something you are concerned about, if the bleeding continues, then it is a warning of an oral issue, and you should schedule an evaluation with your dentist.
Some Common Causes for Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are most often the result of something absurdly simple. Some frequent causes that your gums are bleeding may be:
- Gum Disease- Gum disease is the primary source of bleeding gums. It is a progressive infection that most often needs professional treatment from your dental team to stop the progression. Many adult Americans over the age of thirty have experienced some form of gum disease. The symptoms start quite mild in the preliminary stages, making it easy to just overlook the issue until the disease progresses, causing more damage. In the initial stage, or gingivitis, the symptoms are just bad breath, swollen, or bleeding gums.
- Improper Brushing Technique- Quite a few people are guilty of brushing too aggressively, thinking that more must be better. Your soft gum tissue is quite sensitive, and by brushing too hard, you irritate the tissue, resulting in bleeding. Simply moving the toothbrush slowly in a circular motion, two minutes at a time, is recommended to avoid bleeding and recessing gums.
- Using the Wrong Toothbrush- A toothbrush with stiff bristles does not improve the cleaning ability. This aggressive approach can even damage the enamel on your teeth and also irritate your gums. It is best to brush with soft or medium bristles.
- Incorrect Flossing Technique- Daily flossing just takes some patience. By rushing your flossing, you will cut the gums and cause bleeding gums. You need to floss gently and follow the curve of each tooth.
If ignored and left untreated, your gum disease will progress into the next level called periodontitis, which can now cause serious issues that affect your dental and overall health. This includes abscesses, tooth loss, jawbone damage, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
When Do You Need to Make an Appointment to See Your Dentist?
If you notice blood while brushing your teeth and it continues into a second week, then you need to schedule an appointment with your dental team. This includes if you see swollen gums, have bad breath, or a lingering, nasty taste in your mouth.
Your dentist will perform a thorough evaluation. If there is any sign of gum disease, they will perform a popular, simple, professional teeth cleaning, removing the bacteria-carrying plaque accumulated on your teeth.
If gum disease has advanced to another level, it is possible you might need further dental treatment to control the advancement.
If your gums are bleeding daily during your brushing or flossing, or they are swollen or becoming red, or even if you have other questions or concerns about the potential of gum disease, just schedule an exam with your dentist. They can perform professional teeth cleaning and then help you develop your proper daily oral hygiene program at home.