Bleeding Gums
Don't Panic: A Guide to Understanding and Treating Bleeding Gums
We've all been there. Brushing your teeth, and then – a tinge of red. Bleeding gums can be a worry, but the good news is you're not alone, it's a surprisingly common dental issue.
What Does Bleeding Gums Indicate?
Bleeding gums can point to a few different things, depending on the severity and other symptoms.
Dental Hygiene -
Gingivitis (early stage of gum disease) : This is the most common culprit. Gingivitis is caused by plaque build-up at the gum line. The plaque irritates the gums, making them prone to bleeding when brushed or flossed.
Brushing too Hard: Aggressive brushing can damage gum tissue and cause bleeding.
Other Dental Issues:
Periodontitis (gum disease) : If gingivitis isn't treated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious gum infection that damages tissues and bone supporting your teeth. This can cause significant bleeding and eventually lead to tooth loss.
Health Conditions:
Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamin C and vitamin K can weaken gums and increase risk of bleeding.
Bleeding Disorders: Certain medical conditions like haemophilia can make bleeding more likely.
Hormone Changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, menopause and puberty can cause hormonal changes that affect the gum and lead to bleeding.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can weaken the immune system and increase gum infections and bleeding.
Do Bleeding Gums Go Away On There Own?
Bleeding gums may go away on their own in a few cases, but it's generally we do not recommend you wait and see. Bleeding gums are a symptom, there's an underlying reason why your gums are bleeding, and leaving it untreated could make the problem worse. In the early stages good oral hygiene practices can reverse the inflammation and stop them from bleeding. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis that can damage bone and tissue and is irreversible. A dental hygienist can properly diagnose the cause of your bleeding gums and recommend the best treatment.
How do I stop my gums from bleeding?
While some home remedies can help with minor bleeding gums, it's important to address the underlying cause.
Improve your oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily for two minutes with an electric tooth brush and flossing / interdental cleaning once a day are crucial.
Saltwater rinse: Mix half a teaspoon of table salt in a warm glass of water and swish for 30 seconds, 3-4 times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and bacteria.
Long-term solutions:
See a dentist: Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis. A dentist can diagnose the cause and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include professional cleaning by a hygienist or deeper treatments for advanced gum disease.
Lifestyle changes: Stopping smoking and a healthy diet rich in vitamin C and K can significantly improve gum health.
What does a dental hygienist do?
A dental hygienists main focus is on preventive care, specifically preventing and treating gum disease.
Cleanings : They perform scaling and polishing, to remove plaque and tartar build-up that is missed by regular brushing and flossing. This helps prevent gingivitis and gum disease. They also assess gum health and check for signs of oral cancer.
Educate And Advices: Dental hygienist explain proper oral hygiene techniques. They show you the most effective brushing and flossing techniques.
Treatment Plans: Based on your dental health, they can recommend treatment plans to treat gum disease or other concerns. This can involve additional cleanings, fluoride treatments, or referrals to a dentist for further intervention.
For most adults with good oral hygiene, a visit to the hygienist every six months is recommended. This allows for regular professional cleanings to remove plaque build-up, preventing gingivitis and gum disease.
Where to find us
Haywards Heath sits comfortably in the eastern part of Mid Sussex. If you're familiar with Burgess Hill, it's just to the southwest, while Horsham lies to the northwest. No matter where you are in Mid Sussex, Haywards Heath is likely within easy reach. Established after the arrival of the London & Brighton Railway in 1841, Haywards Heath has transformed into a vibrant town
Contact details
S3 Dental Haywards Heath
26 Haywards Rd,
Haywards Heath
RH16 4HT
01444 440123
hh@s3dental.co.uk