Don’t panic if you notice your gums bleed occasionally! There are many causes of bleeding gums, so ask yourself a few questions. Did you just switch toothbrushes or types of dental floss? Have you started a new dental hygiene routine? Are you pregnant or going through an adjustment period with your medications? Gingivitis and periodontitis are gum diseases that can cause bleeding and ultimately lead to tooth and bone loss. Let’s look at five common reasons your gums bleed.
1. You bought a shiny new toothbrush.
Oh, sweet polishing setting! Most of us get excited about new gadgets without slowing down long enough to realize we should phase in the use of new dental care products to protect our gums. Chances are your old toothbrush was worn down by the time you replaced it. Even if you replace it with the same model, the newer bristles will feel different. Stick with soft bristles unless Dr. Weninger recommends otherwise.
2. You were sent home from the dentist with a new flossing routine.
Because you visit your dentist twice a year, they were able to catch some gaps in your dental hygiene routine. Before you left the office, you were given instructions on how to floss properly to help prevent gum disease. After you tried out your new floss, you noticed your gums were bleeding a bit. Irritation caused by flossing more frequently or in the proper way should clear up within a week.
3. Gingivitis rears its ugly head.
Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of bacteria under your gum line. It can happen quickly or over time. Basically, plaque left behind by poor brushing habits causes the gums to pull away from teeth. This space provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. The good news is that regular dental cleanings followed by good brushing and flossing habits at home can reverse gingivitis in the early stages.
4. Pregnancy gingivitis enters the playing field.
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can affect a woman’s ability to fight off the bacteria that causes gum disease. Brush and floss as directed by the team at Weninger Dentistry to help prevent future issues. You can also use a warm salt water rinse to ease irritation. According to the American Pregnancy Association, pregnancy gingivitis and bleeding gums should clear up after pregnancy.
5. Some medications make you susceptible to bleeding gums.
Anyone on blood thinning medications should let their doctors and dentists know right away if they experience bleeding gums. Blood thinners work by altering the blood’s ability to clot. Our team would love to discuss which types of toothbrushes and rinses help protect sensitive gums and teeth.
At Weninger Dentistry, we are committed to our patients’ dental health. Bleeding gums may be caused by simple changes in your dental hygiene routine, but it is safest to check with us to determine if there is a more serious underlying problem.