How frequently do you brush your teeth? Ideally, you should do so at least twice a day; any less and you risk developing cavities.
Flossing is also important. It is, in fact, one of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease. How else would you be able to remove particles stuck between your teeth?
Do you have swollen gums? Do you want to know what’s causing it? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Why Are Healthy Gums Important?
- Your gums, believe it or not, can have an impact on your physical health. It is a type of soft tissue that creates a tight seal around your teeth.
- It not only strengthens the bones but also keeps bacteria out of the body.
What happens if you don’t brush and floss your teeth?
- Food particles will become lodged in your teeth. Plaque can form as a result of this over time.
- If it is not removed, it can cause gingivitis by releasing toxins that inflame the gums.
- If the condition is not treated, it can progress to periodontal disease.
- It is a gum infection that can destroy the bones and gums around your teeth. It can also increase your risk of respiratory infections and cardiovascular disease.
What Exactly Are Bleeding Gums?
- Gum disease is frequently indicated by bleeding gums. That being said, it isn’t always an issue. For example, if you brush your teeth too vigorously, your gums may bleed. Ill-fitting dentures can also cause bleeding.
- However, if you have prolonged bleeding, things are different. Consider going to the dentist because it could be due to a medical condition.
7 Factors That Can Cause Bleeding Gums
A variety of conditions can cause bleeding gums. Here are a few of the most common:
- GINGIVITIS:
- Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. In general, it happens when plaque builds up on the gum lines.
- Not only can it cause bleeding, but it can also cause mouth soreness.
- Brushing your teeth is the most effective way to prevent gingivitis.
- Flossing is also important because it allows you to remove food particles that would otherwise become plaque.
- PERIODONTITIS:
- Periodontitis is a chronic gum disease that can harm your bones and tissue.
- For example, your gums may become inflamed to the point of pulling away from your teeth.
- One of the most common symptoms is bleeding gums. Additionally, you may experience pain and bad breath. If left untreated, it can result in tooth loss.
- DIABETES:
- Diabetes (type 1 or type 2) can cause bleeding gums. Why? The condition makes the body’s ability to fight off bacterial infections more difficult. As a result, the risk of gum disease is increased.
- Furthermore, high blood sugar levels can make it difficult for your tissues to heal. In other words, recovery would be more difficult.
- LEUKEMIA:
- Leukemia is a cancer that affects the blood cells. The condition causes abnormal blood cells that do not function properly.
- Furthermore, their blood platelet levels will be lower than normal.
- Given that blood platelets help to prevent bleeding, it’s not surprising that they can cause bleeding gums. Simply put, it makes it more difficult for your body to stop bleeding.
- VITAMIN K DEFICIENCY:
- Vitamin K is essential for the clotting of blood. If you don’t get enough of it in your diet, your gums can become inflamed (and potentially bleed).
- When in doubt, consult your doctor, who will be able to test your Vitamin K levels.
- Spinach, lettuce, mustard greens, watercress, soybeans, and olive oil are all high in vitamin K.
- SCURVY:
- Scurvy is uncommon nowadays, but it can occur. It is a nutritional deficiency disease that develops in people who do not consume enough vitamin C, which is a nutrient that helps with tissue growth and repair.
- You may feel weak and irritable in addition to having swollen and bleeding gums.
- Dry skin, bulging eyes, and easy bruising are also symptoms.
- HEMOPHILIA:
- Hemophilia is a rare disease that causes blood to clot improperly.
- As a result, it frequently results in excessive bleeding. For example, you could bleed into your joints (knees, ankles, elbows) or skin.
- While haemophilia does not directly cause bleeding gums, it can be a sign of the disease.
How to Prevent Your Gums from Bleeding
- There are a few things you can do to keep your gums from bleeding. First and foremost, you should visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning.
- You will be less likely to develop gum disease if you remove plaque from your gum line.
- Brushing technique is also important. Brush your teeth in a circular motion with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- If you’re having trouble cleaning your gum line, consider using an electric toothbrush.
Keeping Your Gums Healthy
As you can see, a variety of factors can cause inflamed gums, which can result in bleeding. Brushing and flossing on a regular basis is the best thing you can do!
Please contact us to schedule an appointment.
