Why are Your Gums Bleeding?

Gums are a collective tissue inside the mouth that hold the teeth together. Healthy gums are pink in colour and are tough and firm. But unhealthy gums show signs of swelling, redness, and they bleed while brushing teeth or eating food. Gums act as a shield against bacteria. Unhealthy gums are weak, and therefore, cannot provide support and protection.

Talking about bleeding gums, it is the most common gum problem and is mostly not serious. But if left unchecked, bleeding gums can cause serious issues.

Following are the reasons why your gums might be bleeding:

Gum Diseases

Gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis can cause bleeding gums.

1) Gingivitis is swelling and inflammation of the gums due to bacterial infection. If gingivitis is left untreated, then it evolves into a worse condition known as periodontitis.

2) Periodontitis causes inflammation in gums and weakens the support of bones and jawbone. It is a serious medical condition and people suffering from it require emergency dental care.

Gum diseases are caused by various conditions and are linked to other diseases like diabetes, heart conditions, and cancer.

Plaque and Tartar

Plaque is a sticky deposit of bacteria that grows inside the mouth on gums and in between teeth. If plaque is not cleaned it hardens into tartar which leads to gingivitis, and further into bleeding gums.

Cavities

Cavities or decays are tooth condition where a hole is formed within the tooth. They are small in the beginning but can increase in size if left unchecked. Cavities are formed due to plaque. This is one of the main causes of oral and gum diseases.

Dental Cleaning Equipment

Usage of brush which has hard bristles or sharp dental floss can cause cuts. Some people might have allergies to certain toothpaste and mouthwash which can cause the gums to swell and bleed.

Smoking and Tobacco

Smoking can cause various lung and mouth problems. Smokers are highly prone to bleeding and swollen gums and gum diseases. Tobacco is the main ingredient in cigarettes. It contains harmful and toxic chemicals that cause mouth cancer. Tobacco in any form should be avoided to prevent bleeding gums and other oral issues.

Age

Age is a major factor resulting in weak gums. As you age, cells grow weaker, and this causes gums to lose their toughness and firmness causing the bonds between teeth and bone to grow weaker. This causes bleeding gums, gum diseases, and teeth to fall off in old age.

Basic practices like brushing your teeth after every meal, using mild toothpaste which does not contain strong chemicals like sodium lauryl sulphate, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash can prevent bleeding gums, gum diseases, and can keep your gums and teeth strong and healthy.

Doing a dental checkup every six months can prevent any gum related problems. To find out more about dental problems book an appointment now.