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Gingivitis and
bleeding gums is caused by the inflammation
of the gums around the teeth. Gingivitis or
bleeding gums results from the bacteria in
plaque which is caused by improper cleaning
of teeth. Gingivitis is a progressive
disease and may go undetected in the early
stages. The first indications usually are
bleeding when you floss, and puffiness in
the gums. Because this may cause no pain,
most people are unaware that they have a
problem.
An important aspect of gingivitis to
remember is that it is reversible. This
reversibility is in contrast to
periodontitis, a more severe gum disease can
affect the bone that support the teeth.
Gingivitis is usually painless, although the
gums may be red, swollen, and bleed easily
with brushing. There can also be a bad taste
in the mouth or persistent bad breath. In
advanced stages of gingivitis, the gums
recede, exposing the tooth roots, and the
teeth may become loose. This is usually an
indication of periodontitis. If gingivitis
is left untreated, the infection will
eventually spread into the roots of the
teeth. The plaque on the root of the tooth
and along the gums infects all of these
areas
Symptoms of Bleeding Gums.
Bleeding of the gums may occur with or
without associated pain. The pain if present
is usually dull in nature. Bleeding is
usually noticed during brushing, or in the
saliva, while spitting. Bleeding is also
induced by eating any hard or coarse food
items.
Bleeding Gums treatment
Bleeding gums can be treated by the removal
of the source of bacteria. Proper
maintenance of the teeth by the patient is a
must. Your dentist may even suggest a change
in your diet
Sore and bleeding gums can be aggravated by
citrus fruits and juices, rough or spicy
food, alcohol, and tobacco. Take vitamin C
supplements if citrus fruits and juices
cannot be taken. If dentures make gums
bleed, wear them only during meals.
Gum bleeding can be controlled by applying
pressure with a gauze pad soaked in ice
water directly to the bleeding gums. Brush
teeth gently after every meal. Use a soft
brush, or a special vibrating brush to clean
the teeth without irritating the gums.
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Frequently asked questions about Bleeding
Gums
Bleeding gums problems , who should be
contacted?
A dentist should be contacted at the
earliest for bleeding gums treatment.
Is bleeding of the gum a serious problem?
Yes, bleeding gums is a serious problem. It
indicates the erosion of the supporting
tissue around the tooth, which could
eventually lead to tooth loss.
Is there any medication for bleeding
gums?
Special mouthrinses and pastes are available
across the counter, which can be self
administered by the patient. When used, they
reduce the bacteria-induced inflammation and
can stop or reduce bleeding. But long
lasting results are obtained only by
treating the cause.
In general, people can prevent gingivitis or
bleeding gums by the following the steps
below
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Brush teeth
after every meal with a soft bristle brush
and fluoride toothpaste, don't forget to
floss
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See your
dentist twice a year to check and if
necessary clean your teeth to help prevent
gingivitis
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Use an
antibacterial mouthwash
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See your
Orthodontist to repair misaligned teeth to
keep food from getting trapped between
teeth
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