5 Reasons Bleeding Gums Mean It’s Time For a visit To the Dentist

Bleeding gums are anything but normal. The only thing that should be coming off of your teeth when you brush is food particles and bacteria.

Although bleeding gums can be a result of temporary irritations such as using a hard-bristled toothbrush, if it becomes a recurring issue,  there is a good chance that you have a more serious underlying oral health problem that requires the services of a dentist.

Considering the adverse effects poor oral health, you definitely do not want to gamble and end up losing your teeth and smile. Here are five reasons why visiting the dental office should be the first thing you do when you frequently notice your gums bleeding after your brush:

Reasons why bleeding gums means you should visit the dentist

1. Gums can dry due to medication

This mostly applies to patients taking blood pressure medication or antidepressants. These drugs dry up a patient's saliva, leaving a dry mouth, creating a bacteria-friendly environment. As the bacteria increase, gums become swollen, abnormally reddish, and eventually start to bleed. Your dentist can address dry gums with a lubricating gel.

2. It may be a sign of gingivitis

Commonly referred to as inflammation of the gums, Gingivitis is a gum disease that occurs as a result of poor oral care practices. The symptoms are often hard to notice. If you are suffering from this condition, your gums will turn reddish and eventually start bleeding, but you will rarely feel any pain. Visiting a dentist is the surest way to test for this disease and get a proper remedy for it.

3. Blood Thinning Medications

Heart disease necessitates the use of blood thinning medications. These drugs are meant to reduce blood clotting, meaning that a small injury can cause serious bleeding. If you are on such medications and you happen to injure your gum when flossing or brushing, then it is important that you visit a dentist for expert advice. Do not wait until it is too late to make amends.

4. Hormonal changes

Women experience hormonal changes during pregnancy which can lead to a condition known as Pregnancy Gingivitis. This condition is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums. Although it ceases after pregnancy, pregnancy gingivitis can lead to overly accumulated disease-causing bacteria and subsequent a serious gum problem. If you are pregnant and experiencing bleeding gums after brushing, book an appointment with your dentist.

5. Low immune system

Low immunity in human beings is mostly caused by chronic diseases such as HIV and diabetes. If your gum bleeds even after maintaining a high level of oral hygiene, something more serious could be brewing. Your dentist has the necessary knowledge to identify serious underlying health issues and advise you accordingly. In the case of HIV, bleeding gums puts your spouse at risk of contracting the virus through deep kissing.

Are you struggling with bleeding gums? Do not overlook the issue and wait for it to clear up on its own. Maintain good oral hygiene at all times: regular flossing and proper brushing. Most importantly, make regular visits to your dentist for oral checkups.

Contact Eastside Dental in Milwaukee at (414) 888-4000 if you notice your gums bleeding frequently.