Are Bleeding Gums A Problem?
Do you notice a hint of red or pink when you rinse after brushing your teeth? If so, you are experiencing bleeding gums. The first time you see bleeding gums, it is nothing to cause a panic. However, if you regularly notice your gums are bleeding, it can indicate there may be a problem with your oral health. Some causes of bleeding gums include:
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is a lack of oral hygiene. It is recommended that patients brush their teeth a minimum of twice a day for two minutes each time. Flossing once a day is also necessary for your oral health. If you are not brushing or flossing properly, you can cause trauma to your gums. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle brushing motions, not vigorous strokes. When flossing, do not force the floss too hard between your teeth and damage your gums. We are happy to show you the proper brushing and flossing methods the next time you visit the office.
Gum Disease
This common disease does not have many warning signs for patients, but one of the few is bleeding gums. Gum disease occurs when there is a buildup of plaque and tartar along the gumline. This condition affects more than half of American adults.
Medications
You may be surprised to learn the number of medications, prescription as well as over the counter, that can cause bleeding gums. It is important to share any changes to your medical history so we can treat your mouth accordingly. We would hate for you to bleed unnecessarily during a cleaning or procedure.
If you experience bleeding gums it is important not to worry, but it is important to visit us soon. If you are in Houston, TX or the surrounding area, we recommend calling our office to schedule an appointment. We can perform an examination and determine the exact cause and recommend a treatment plan. We look forward to helping get your oral health back on track.