What Are Bleeding Gums?

Bleeding, inflamed or irritated gums are a sign that you are at risk or may already have gum disease, also known as gingivitis and are primarily due to inadequate removal of plaque from the teeth at the gum line.

The health of gums is as important, if not more so than cavity prevention when it comes to oral hygiene and bleeding gums or gums that inflamed or sensitive may be an indication that you should see a dental professional.

Bleeding gums may be the result of injury or trauma (including aggressive brushing or flossing); disease; mouth sores that have spread; blood disorders; systemic disorders; nutritional disorders; pregnancy or hormonal changes; medications; and burns or chemicals.

On average, more than 75% of the population over age 35 have suffer from some sort of periodontal or gum disease but regardless of the statistics, proper care is paramount.

What Are The Symptoms Of Bleeding Gums?

Symptoms of bleeding gums are self-evident but other indicators may also be present. These can include bleeding even with light touch; redness, tenderness of the gums, or swollen gums; blood and a bloody taste in the mouth; bad breath; evidence of a receding gum line; tooth sensitivity both to hot and cold; tooth sensitivity to hard substances such as candy; loose teeth; and difficulty in chewing food.

In some instances of infection, bleeding gums may also be accompanied by pus being squeezed from the gums.

With prolonged sensitivity or bleeding gums, a dental professional's help should be sought.

Remedies For Bleeding Gums

Correcting the issue is foremost when it comes to bleeding gums and that process begins with seeing a oral care professional. Brushing and flossing are also necessary as remedial recourses but it is important to remember that gums are sensitive tissue areas. Overbrushing or aggressive brushing can cause gums to bleed. Similarly, aggressive flossing may also exacerbate the situation.

Following treatment, it is necessary to follow a regimen that maintains healthy gums and prevents further erosion or receding of the gumlines. If the problem of bleeding gums is not corrected in early stages, it can lead to complications that may include increased bleeding; periodontal disease; jaw bone disease or tooth loss.

Over the counter solutions such as anti-bacterial mouthwashes, rinses and tooth powders to exist but they will not cure the underlying issues and accordingly should not be the only recourse deployed for bleeding gums. Bleeding gums will worsen over time and proper professional care cannot be overemphasized.

Home Remedies For Bleeding Gums

As with over the counter treatments, home remedies for bleeding gums will not cure the underlying infection. The best home remedy is a gentle brushing regimen applied twice daily. Natural pastes and rinses containing mint may help reduce swelling. Gargling with salt water helps reduce bacteria in the mouth.

Additionally, gargling with hydrogen peroxide and water in equal parts can help, however be sure that it is not swallowed.

Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables; food rich in fibre and vitamin C and those containing low saturated fats.


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