Bleeding gums can have a few different causes… some of which are more serious than others.
It can be quite scary when you notice that your gums are bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth. There are a few different reasons why you may have bleeding gums – some are more concerning while others are temporary or easily remedied. So what are the possible causes? Here are 5 of the most common.
Gingivitis
Plaque on the teeth and gumline that is not removed through brushing and flossing can cause an infection of the gums and lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. When this happens to you, you’ll notice that your gums might be swollen, tender, and bleed while brushing. Regular brushing and flossing habits can remedy this problem, as well as getting a checkup from your dentist.
Medical Treatment
Blood thinning medications are one of the possible reasons why you have bleeding gums. These drugs decrease the clotting ability of your blood and can make it easier for your gums to bleed. Your dentist and doctor may be able to help reduce this risk.
New Flossing Routine
Anytime you change your flossing routine, there is a risk of bleeding gums. If you forget to floss for a few days or decide to increase the frequency of your flossing, you may notice bleeding. Usually, this clears itself up fairly quickly, within a week in most cases.
New Toothbrush
The bristles on your toothbrush can also contribute to bleeding gums. In general, dentists recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush as it doesn’t wear down the enamel during brushing. If you have switched from a soft-bristled to a firm brush you may notice that your gums will bleed. You should speak to your dentist for help in picking a toothbrush that’s right for you.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Pregnant women can experience bleeding gums during brushing. This condition is called pregnancy gingivitis and it is caused by hormonal changes which change the reaction of the body to the bacteria that causes gum disease. These symptoms usually go away after pregnancy, but in the meantime keeping up with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups can help mitigate the problem and prevent it from becoming worse.
You Can Trust Olney Dental for All of Your Oral Care Needs
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, and Pinterest.