My gums bleed, is this normal?
The simple answer is no!
It is not normal if your gums bleed. Bleeding is a sign that your gums are unhealthy.
Is it because I brushed too hard before coming to see you?
Yes and no.
Most people have the best intentions to take good care of their teeth and gums by regular brushing and flossing — but we are human, and you may fall off the ‘floss wagon’ a couple of weeks after seeing your dental hygienist.
Then, before for your regular visit, you try to make up for lost time by doing an extra good flossing job an hour before your appointment. If this is when you notice that your gums bleed, it’s not a result of brushing too hard but a sign that the gums have been neglected.
Bleeding gums equals gum disease, also known as gingivitis, and this is a form of periodontal disease.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum tissues around the teeth. It is the most common form of periodontal disease and the easiest to correct.
Inflammation is a response to bacterial biofilm, also called plaque, that attaches to our teeth above and below the gum line.
Is gingivitis painful?
75% of the population has some degree of gingivitis, and most people don’t know that they have gum disease because it is painless.
Signs and symptoms of gingivitis:
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding during eating, brushing, flossing
- Bad breath
- Bright red or purple gums (healthy gums are a pale pink colour)
- The stippling appearance on the gums has disappeared and the gums look smooth or stretched
- Soreness
Treatment:
- Remove the plaque from your teeth using a toothbrush, floss, dental aids, mouth wash
- Look in the mirror closely for signs of gum disease
- Visit a dental professional and have your teeth cleaned professionally
- Invest in an electric toothbrush
- Eat raw vegetables and fruits like apples that will scrape the plaque off of the teeth naturally
- Change your toothbrush every 8-12 weeks
- There are many vitamins that support gum health including: zinc, vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, vitamin D and calcium, selenium
If you have questions about the health of your gums, contact us at Simon Pong Dentistry, and we’ll help guide you in the right direction.
