Why Are Your Gums Bleeding?
Do you find that after you brush and floss your teeth the water is pink or red when you rinse? This is a sign that you are experiencing bleeding gums. Bleeding gums can happen from something as simple as food stuck between your teeth. However, if you experience bleeding gums frequently, it may be an indication that there is a problem with your oral health. Some possible causes of bleeding gums include:
Improper Brushing and Flossing
One of the most common causes of bleeding gums is improper oral hygiene. If you are not brushing and flossing your teeth properly, you may be causing damage to your gums. Bleeding gums are extremely common if you brush and floss too vigorously and roughly. It may also be the result of using a toothbrush with stiff bristles. If you are unsure how to properly brush or floss your teeth, we are happy to help! We can also make toothbrush recommendations.
Medications
You may be surprised to learn about the number of medications that can affect your oral health. There are many medications that can cause bleeding gums. Certain medications irritate the gums or increase your likelihood of bleeding if you brush or floss too harshly. It is important to notify our office of any changes in your medical history or medications you are taking, as this can impact how we clean your teeth.
Gum Disease
This is a common dental issue that affects approximately half of American adults. Although gum disease doesn’t have very many warning signs, one of the few to be mindful of is bleeding gums. If you have a plaque buildup along the gumline, it can lead to bleeding gums due to inflammation. This is a sign that you may be in the beginning stages of gum disease.
If you experience bleeding gums, it is important not to worry but still visit us soon. If you are in Northridge, CA 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.