One of the most common questions patients ask is – Why are my gums swollen and bleeding?
Irritated, inflamed or swollen gums are a sign that you need to make changes. Since bleeding gums are so common many people take them casually but they are a sign that your mouth needs some tender loving care both at home and at your dentist’s office.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for individual dental care. Gum discomfort and bleeding range in intensity and severity. Early intervention guarantees your best chance of restoring health to your gums. See your dentist for a thorough examination and personalized treatment plan.
In the meantime, we hope this article serves as a helpful reminder of the importance of taking care of your gums and motivates you to use this information immediately. Your daily habits outside your dentist’s office make a huge difference in the health of your gums.
Your daily habits outside your dentist’s office make a huge difference in the health of your gums. Here’s what you should know about – Why are my gums swollen and bleeding?
Sore, swollen, or bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease. Web MD reported that over three-quarters of adults over 35 years old have gum disease. The intensity ranges from mild irritation to serious periodontitis. The early stage is known as gingivitis.
When people are not diligent about flossing and brushing then the bacteria builds up and forms a sticky substance called plaque. The bacteria irritates and inflames the gums.
Other serious symptoms of the progression of gum disease include:
With early intervention, gingivitis may be reversed. However, if it progresses into periodontitis then the patient is at risk for losing bone density and teeth. It is difficult and not always possible to fully reverse the effects of more serious gum diseases like periodontitis. This is why prevention and early intervention are so important.
In addition to gum disease, burns, scrapes, canker sores or mouth ulcers may also cause pain and irritation in the gums. If you experience new sores and soreness on your gums, schedule an appointment with your dentist.
As mentioned, serious gum disease can result in the loss of bone density in your mouth and jaw as well as tooth loss. Sometimes people diligently brush their teeth but neglect their gums and as a result, they still risk tooth loss even if they don’t have any obvious cavities.
In recent years, medical science has noticed a connection between gum health and overall health. We still need more research to determine the exact causes but it appears that healthy gums may benefit your heart and overall health.
The Mayo Clinic noted that the bacteria that leads to periodontitis can enter the bloodstream through the gums. Gum disease appears associated with other conditions like diabetes, coronary artery disease, respiratory disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
A healthy mouth may improve your chances of maintaining overall health and quality of life. This is one reason flossing is so important. If you are a parent, helping your kids develop good oral hygiene may turn out to be just as important as teaching them the importance of eating right and exercising.
With poor at-home dental hygiene, anyone may be vulnerable to the risks of developing gum disease. However, like just about every medical condition a mix of genetic and lifestyle factors may increase the risk for an individual more than average.
In addition to oral hygiene, some factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontitis are:
If those risk factors apply, consider any appropriate lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and also inform your dentist of your symptoms and risk factors.
If you have ever been to a dentist, chances are you already know what steps you need to take to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Often people know what they need to do, but they underestimate the importance. We all need a reminder now and then.
Develop the following habits for healthy gums:
Finally, there is one more step to maintaining a healthy mouth… We hope the above information provides you the answer to your question – why are my gums swollen and bleeding?
For healthy gums, professional cleaning is essential. When plaque hardens to form tartar only a professional can safely remove it.
Your regularly scheduled cleanings help keep your gums healthy and also offer your dental team the chance to check in on the health of your teeth and gums. It is also a great time to refine your brushing and flossing technique. Feel free to ask your dentist or hygienist any questions.
We hope the information in this post means you will never need to ask – Why are my gums swollen and bleeding?
The first step to healthy gums is a visit to your dentist for a cleaning and exam. If you live in the Charlotte area, contact Southview Dentistry to schedule your appointment. we look forward to helping you achieve a happy and healthy smile!