Do your gums bleed after flossing or brushing your teeth? If yes, then you’re one of the 90% of the population that experience such a problem. Here are some of the common causes of bleeding gums:
- Gingivitis
- Pregnancy
- Poor Diet
- New Toothbrush or Improper Brushing of Teeth
- Health Problems
One of the most common reasons why a person experiences bleeding gums is because of an oral health condition called gingivitis (the buildup of plaque at the gum line). Other symptoms you might experience when you have gingivitis include bad breath, tender and swollen gums, redness, and receding gums.
According to research, about half of pregnant women experience swollen, red, and bleeding gums due to hormonal changes. But you might be able to prevent such a problem from happening during your pregnancy period by practicing good oral hygiene, such as flossing daily and brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
You may be wondering, what does a poor diet have to do with bleeding gums? According to experts, some ingredients in processed and sugary foods can irritate your gums and cause minor bleeding. For instance, starchy meals can easily get stuck between your teeth and contribute to plaque buildup (gingivitis).
So, opt for healthier alternatives instead, especially fruits and vegetables rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, K, C, and D. They’re said to be essential in maintaining good oral health.
If your teeth and gums are used to a soft-bristled toothbrush, then you may experience bleeding gums if you suddenly switch to a hard-bristled one. Vigorously brushing your teeth also puts you at risk of developing gum recession.
People with certain health problems, such as liver disease, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, anemia, vitamin deficiency, leukemia, and temporal arteritis are likely to experience bleeding gums. For example, patients with diabetes are at risk of getting infections, which may cause bleeding and swollen gums.
Consult With Your Dentist Now!
Although bleeding gums are not in itself dangerous, they can also be an early warning sign of gum disease. So, it would be best for you to get in touch with the dentists at Pillar Dental right away for an examination. You may set up an appointment to meet our dental professionals by calling (605) 271-4422, or by sending us an email at info@pillardental.com.