When Should I Be Concerned with Bleeding Gums?
Have you recently noticed blood in the sink after you brush or floss your teeth? If you have, you aren’t alone. In fact, many adults in the United States have experienced bleeding from their gums at some point. While a small amount of blood may not be too concerning, if you have noticed that your gums are bleeding regularly, then it may be a warning sign of a more serious oral health problem. Below, we provide more details on why your gums may be bleeding and when you should be concerned about it.
Why are My Gums Bleeding?
There are several possible reasons why your gums may be bleeding. A few of the most common reasons include:
- Incorrect brushing technique: With the right intention, many adults brush their teeth too aggressively, believing it will help get their teeth as clean as possible. The truth is that gum tissue is extremely sensitive, and brushing the gums and teeth too hard can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed. The best way to brush your teeth is to use a circular motion, not back and forth, to help avoid damaging the gum tissue and causing it irritation.
- Wrong toothbrush: Again, with good intentions, many adults choose a toothbrush with firm or hard bristles, assuming this will help ensure their teeth get clean. Firm or hard brushes are more likely to damage the outer surface of the teeth, called the enamel, and irritate the gums. If your gums have recently been bleeding, you should try a soft or medium-bristle toothbrush.
- Incorrect flossing technique: Like brushing, using the wrong flossing technique can actually hurt or cut the gum and cause it to recede. When you floss, focus on being gentle, sliding the floss up along the curve of the tooth instead of pushing firmly into the gums.
- Gum disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is one of the primary causes of bleeding gums. Gum disease is a slowly progressing disease that requires professional treatment to help stop or reverse it. When daily oral hygiene has been neglected for some time, the buildup of bacteria and plaque will harden along the teeth, irritating the gums and causing them to become infected and recede. If left untreated for too long, gum disease will cause tissue and bone loss, including tooth loss.
When Should I See My Dentist?
If you have noticed blood when you brush or floss more than a few times in the past month, you should schedule a visit with your dental provider. Your dentist will complete a thorough exam to check the health of your teeth and gums. If you think you may have an incorrect brushing or flossing technique, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your provider wants to help you improve your oral health. If your provider thinks you are in the early stages of gum disease, they will schedule you for a more advanced professional cleaning. The important thing is paying attention to your oral health and seeing your dentist if you are concerned.