You probably know that you should brush your teeth every day for two minutes at a time. You also know that you should floss every day. Have you ever been told that bleeding gums is a normal part of caring for your pearly whites? Sadly, this isn’t true. In fact, bleeding gums could actually indicate more serious issues.
One of the most common reasons for bleeding gums is gum disease. Gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease, can infect your gums, leading to swelling and discomfort. Luckily, if gum disease is recognized early enough, it can be treated fairly easily.
Unfortunately, there are other issues that could cause bleeding gums. For instance, would you be surprised to learn that certain medications could be the reason your gums are bleeding? For instance, some medications are designed to thin your blood, which makes it more difficult for your blood to clot. This can lead to bleeding gums and sensitive teeth.
However, your gums could also bleed because of brushing and flossing. If you haven’t flossed in some time, starting can cause bleeding gums. If this bleeding doesn’t stop within a week, please schedule an appointment with our team. Similarly, if you use a toothbrush with hard bristles, you could damage your teeth or gums—which could cause bleeding.
If you’re interested in learning more about bleeding gums, please don’t hesitate to contact Steven P. Walker, DDS at 219-926-4321. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and to offer you personalized advice. Dr. Steven Walker and our team are eager to hear from you.