Gum bleeding is a common oral health issue that affects many people. It is also known as gingival bleeding. It occurs when the gums, the soft tissue surrounding and supporting the teeth, bleed during brushing or flossing. The bleeding can range from occasional spotting to consistent and heavy bleeding.
The most common cause of gum bleeding is periodontal disease. The periodontium is the specialised tissue that both surrounds and supports the teeth, maintaining them in the maxillary and mandibular bones. Any inflammation or infection of the gums and bone surrounding and supporting the teeth is known as periodontal disease. Gum bleeding is one of them.
The gum infection is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Within 24 hours, plaque can harden into tartar, which is called calculus.
If this plaque and calculus are not treated, it can lead to serious periodontal disease. So poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum bleeding. The bacteria can spread without proper brushing and flossing and cause tooth decay or gum disease.
Other causes of gum bleeding can include improper brushing and flossing techniques, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Identifying the cause of the disease is the most important thing in making a treatment plan.
To prevent gum bleeding and other periodontal diseases, the main key is to have good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily are important.
Adequate vitamin C intake can help strengthen your immune system. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to gum bleeding. Not getting enough vitamin C in your diet may worsen bleeding if you have gum disease, even if you practice good oral habits. Taking food rich in vitamin C regularly can help a lot to improve oral health.
Sugary foods encourage plaque and the growth of bacteria. Taking less sugary foods, and carbohydrates, avoiding between-meal snacks, and cleaning the mouth properly every time you eat is necessary to prevent plaque formation. The less plaque accumulation, the less likely you are to have bleeding gum.
Using any kind of tobacco can damage your oral health. Smoking can reduce your body's immune system. Making it harder for your body to fight against the plaque bacteria responsible for the inflammation of the gum.
According to researchers, Mental stress always has a negative impact on the immune system. On the other hand, emotional stress can lead some people to neglect their oral health.
Reducing mental stress from your life and eating a balanced diet are recommended by the American dental association (ADA) to keep your smile healthy.
To treat gum bleeding, it is essential to address it as soon as it is noticed. A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing is the initial treatment for gum bleeding. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth.
These procedures are followed by polishing the teeth to prevent the buildup of bacteria on tooth surfaces responsible for plaque formation.
If faulty brushing techniques cause gum bleeding, a dental surgeon can provide proper education on oral hygiene techniques. In severe cases, surgeries like 'flap surgery' are needed to treat gum disease.
Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of gum disease. Visit dental professionals twice a year to help maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile for a
