Bleeding gums are not an uncommon issue for one to experience every once in a while and typically, is not serious. A pink tinge when you rinse after brushing and flossing may mean that you have simply irritated your gum tissue and it will stop on its own. Poor oral hygiene is often the cause of bleeding gums though certain medications can contribute to bleeding gums such as aspirin and blood thinners. Occasional, minor bleeding can usually be treated at home on your own but more severe or persistent bleeding should be addressed by your dentist.
Prevent Bleeding Gums
Unless you have an underlying medical condition that is causing your gums to bleed, it is pretty easy to keep your teeth and gums healthy! Oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gum disease and bleeding gums. If you have trouble brushing and flossing, your dentist can advise you on tools and techniques to make sure you are doing the best to keep your teeth!
When plaque is not removed regularly and properly, it can harden into tartar and continue to grow and accumulate bacteria along and under the gum line which can lead to inflammation and even gum recession.
A good routine includes brushing at least twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush, flossing at least once a day, and using tongue scraper at least once a day. Products with fluoride and antimicrobial agents will help keep bacteria at bay and keep your teeth and gums cleaner longer.
Keep in mind, you should replace your toothbrush every three months or when it begins to fray. It is also a good idea to go ahead and replace your toothbrush each time you have your teeth professionally cleaned.
Flossing is something that a lot of people have trouble getting into their routine. Flossing removes plaque from between your teeth and just below the gum line where your toothbrush cannot reach. A new flossing routine is very likely to cause some bleeding but as you continue consistent flossing, bleeding will stop.
When are bleeding gums serious enough to see the dentist?
Most of the time, bleeding is temporary and will stop on its own in a couple of weeks but if it persists beyond that, you need to see your dentist as soon as possible. If you have developed gum disease, you will not see a decline in the amount of bleeding during oral hygiene and may need to have a deep cleaning, scaling and root planning, to get their gum tissue back to a healthy normal. Scaling and root planning is the first treatment step for periodontal disease and can be the only treatment needed if the infection is not too severe.
In the event that infection is too far along to be remedied by a deep cleaning, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for more specialized treatment.