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We’ve all brushed our teeth to find our gums bleeding once or twice. It can be caused by brushing too hard, or it can be an underlying gum problem. Although it is expected, bleeding gums can lead to worse things like gum diseases. If left untreated, bleeding gums can lead to bad oral health.
Bleeding gums can be an indicator of other gum diseases.
Again, bleeding gums are normal. They are sensitive tissues that hold our teeth in place, easily scratched by the food we eat and chew. However, if the bleeding happens regularly, it can be a sign that your gums are warning you about a health risk.
Gum disease is an umbrella of issues in the gums often caused by bacterial infection. Its usual symptoms may or may not include inflammation, bleeding, and redness. Although it is easy to treat, gum diseases may lead to worse issues, such as receding gums and tooth loss.
Plaque buildup causes gums to bleed.
The leading cause of bleeding gums is bacterial plaque buildup. Plaque is the sticky film that forms around our teeth made of bacteria and saliva. The bacteria produce acids after eating that can destroy the enamel protecting. It can also develop under the gums and roots, causing the bones that support teeth to break.
Bleeding gums can develop into receding gums.
The worst consequence of neglecting bleeding gums is gum recession. Receding gums are usually irreversible unless aided by gum rejuvenation treatments. In addition, you may start to notice your gum line starting to push backward, leaving your roots exposed. If this happens, the teeth will be more exposed to bacterial infection, leading to tooth loss.
Taking good care of your oral health prevents gums from bleeding.
Preventing gum diseases is easy. First, take good care of your oral health by brushing twice a day. Use a soft to medium-bristled toothbrush to avoid causing trauma to your gums. Next, choose a toothpaste that has gum-protecting ingredients. Last, remember to gargle with mouthwash and floss every day. Sometimes, brushing is not enough to clean out food particles left in between teeth.
An important note: chronic bad breath is also a sign of underlying gum disease.
Aside from bleeding gums, bad breath is also a great sign to know if you have underlying gum disease. Bad breath is also expected, but if your breath still smells terrible after few bottles of mouthwash, you better check with your dentist.
Conclusion
Keeping your gums and teeth in good condition is as important as keeping other parts of your body healthy. Tooth decay and gum disease should not hinder you from enjoying good food. Remember the points above to make sure your oral hygiene stays in top shape.
Dental House is a dental clinic based in Michigan. Serving Ypsilanti from Mondays through Saturdays, we offer affordable, preventive dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, dental sedation, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, wisdom tooth extractions, advanced dental technology, and Invisalign aligners. So make an appointment with the best dentist in Ypsilanti today!
