Despite recommending semi-annual checkups, people don’t see a dentist until they suffer from severe toothache. In the absence of pain, they tend to ignore oral symptoms such as BLEEDING GUMS. Infection in our oral cavity can be associated with many general health problems such as heart diseases, stroke etc. Therefore signs like bleeding gums gives us an indication that it needs immediate attention.

BLEEDING GUMS; A SIGN OF INFLAMMATION

When we properly follow brushing and flossing regime, we remove the bacteria living on our teeth and the supporting gum tissues. But if we are not able to follow, the bacteria in our oral cavity tend to build up at and below our gum line. As a result bacteria on our teeth leads to caries and bacteria at/below our gumline leads to gum infection known as gingivitis (inflammation without bone loss) or periodontitis (inflammation with bone loss).

CAUSES

  • Poor oral hygiene- On avoiding proper oral hygiene, there can be more plaque and tartar build up ultimately leading to gum diseases.
  • Smokers- Smokers develop gum diseases earlier then non smokers.
  • Age- The risk of gum diseases increases with age.
  • Change in hormones-During puberty, pregnancy and menopause, gingiva becomes sensitive with increased risk of inflammation.
  • Poor diet- Vitamin C deficiency has been linked to gum disease.
  • Family history- Those whose parents had gum disease have more risk of developing the same.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE YOUR DENTIST?

  • Bright Red gums       
  • Tender gums that feel painful on touch       
  •  Bleeding while brushing, flossing or spontaneous     
  •  Foul breath  
  •  Swollen gums

 PROFESSIONAL DENTAL CARE

Dentist will first look for the exact cause for gum disease. If required proper cleaning/scaling of teeth will be done. The dental professional will explain the proper method of brushing and flossing. Follow up appointments may be suggested for more frequent cleanings if required.

“Be true to your teeth and they won’t be false to you”