Have you ever noticed that your gums bleed when you floss or brush your teeth? Bleeding gums indicate that there is something wrong, as healthy gums should not bleed.
Here is a list of some possible causes of bleeding gums.
1. Brushing too hard
Brushing your teeth too hard does not clean your teeth better, but rather causes the risk of developing gingival recession. If they also bleed, there is inflammation of the gums.
Brushing can be done manually with a brush of medium hardness with a correct brushing technique or with an electric toothbrush that simulates the circular movement that we would do manually, but with control, so that we are less likely to damage our gums.
2. Gingivitis
The main cause of bleeding gums is the accumulation of plaque at the gum line. When this happens, the gums become swollen, tender and bleed during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis will develop into periodontitis, affecting all the tissues surrounding the tooth and, therefore, leading to tooth loss.
3. Wearing dentures that do not fit properly
Dentures that do not fit properly can cause bleeding of the gums causing sores and chafing. It is therefore advisable to remove the dentures at night, brush them with toothpaste and sanitize them with a product that also prevents tartar build-up (effervescent tablets). In addition, if dentures are used, the teeth (if not edentulous), gums and tongue should also be brushed.
4. Pregnancy
During pregnancy there are hormonal changes that favor the appearance of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis.
If you already suffer from gingivitis or periodontitis before pregnancy, during pregnancy it could be aggravated even more.
A check-up during the first trimester of pregnancy and a dental hygiene prescribed by your dentist, in addition to having a good oral hygiene, brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, is basic.
5. Poor nutrition
Some ingredients in processed foods can irritate the gums and cause them to bleed. It is advisable to avoid processed and sugary foods, and opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and foods that provide calcium, vitamins A, K and C, and magnesium.
6. Health problems
Bleeding gums are more frequent in patients with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, among others. If you suffer from a systemic disease and have periodontal disease, you should take extra care of your oral health to keep bacteria at bay so that your disease does not worsen.
