Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
At Kewaskum Family Dentistry, we are passionate about helping our patients achieve the ultimate in dental health. One way to achieve this is by being mindful of the state of your oral health between appointments. We see you only a few times a year, so it is up to you to regularly check your teeth and mouth and look for any problems.
One issue you may notice on occasion is bleeding gums — you might see hints of red or pink when you rinse your mouth after brushing. If you notice this from time to time, we suggest mentioning it during your next oral hygiene examination. However, if bleeding gums are a regular problem, it can indicate a problem with your oral health. Some causes of bleeding gums may include:
Poor Oral Hygiene
Not caring for your teeth and gums properly can lead to bleeding gums. If food is trapped between your teeth, it can cause your gums to bleed. The same is true if you are too rough when brushing and flossing your teeth. You may be causing trauma to your gums, resulting in bleeding gums. Always brush using gentle strokes, and do not forcefully push the dental floss into your gums. If you are unsure how to clean your teeth properly, we will be happy to help you during your next visit.
Gum Disease
One of the few warning signs of this common disease is bleeding gums. Gum disease develops when there is an abundance of bacteria and plaque along the gumline. Bleeding gums are typical in the early stages of the disease.
Medications
You might be surprised by the number of medications that cause bleeding gums. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can both have this side effect. Be sure to list all the medications you are taking when you visit our office.
If you experience bleeding gums regularly, it is important not to worry, but be sure to visit us soon. If you are in Kewaskum, WI or the surrounding area, we recommend calling our office to schedule an appointment. We can perform an examination, determine the exact cause, and recommend a treatment plan. We look forward to helping get your oral health back on track.