Bleeding gums are often a clear sign that you have periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease.
Depending how much your gums are bleeding and how often they're bleeding is an indication of 'how far along' your gum disease may have progressed.
Below are 5 reasons why your gums might be bleeding. There are other reasons too, but if this is becoming a regular issue for you, you'll want to schedule time with a periodontist or your dentist.
Quick: What exactly is gum disease? It’s a contagious bacterial infection can destroy your gums, erode your jawbone, and lead to tooth loss. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it.
Infection of your gums is caused by bacteria. First, they create the irritation to the gum tissue. Then there’s the body's reaction -- an inflammatory response.
Together, you’ve got inflamed, bleeding gums. The longer you have inflammation, the worse things can be for you, your gums, your teeth and your overall health.
Your oral hygiene needs work
Inadequate oral hygiene (generally made up of not brushing, flossing or visiting your dentist on a regular basis) will result in visible plaque on teeth and red swollen gums. Remember too, gum disease can move quickly and can be present without pain.
Your diet is not good for your teeth and gums
Your teeth don't appreciate a poor diet. Mixing poor oral hygiene habits with improper diet can speed gum disease issues. Fruits and vegetables are much better for your teeth than processed foods fills with sugar.
Cigarettes are not good for you
Smokers are at a much higher risk for gum disease due to the toxins in cigarettes. They can create inflammation while decreasing the body’s immune response -- that's a bad combination.
A family history of gum disease
35% of the population is born with a higher tendency to get periodontal disease. Are you one? Testing can be done to determine this -- and your dentist may have given you indications that you're more susceptible to gum disease.
Your medications are not helping you
Some medications interfere with the blood flow to tissues or hamper saliva flow. That can lead to dry mouth which offers you less 'natural' protection for your gums. Drinking good amounts of water to compensate can help.
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If you have more questions for our office or our doctors, please call our office at 772-919-7093.
