Noticed a little pink in the sink after brushing or flossing? It’s easy to dismiss bleeding gums as nothing serious, but they could be your body’s way of sounding the alarm. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed, and if they do, it’s worth paying attention.
At the Family Dental Clinic, we’re here to talk about why bleeding gums happen, what they could mean for your health and how you can keep your smile in top shape:
Why Do Gums Bleed?
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum inflammation, known as gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease. This happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along the gumline, irritating the gums and making them more prone to bleeding. But that’s not the only reason your gums might be bleeding. Other causes include:
- Brushing too hard – Using a firm toothbrush or applying too much pressure can irritate your gums.
- Flossing inconsistently – If you suddenly start flossing after a long break, your gums might bleed at first, but they should improve with regular care.
- Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menopause and even puberty can make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding.
- Vitamin deficiencies – A lack of vitamin C or K in your diet could contribute to gum bleeding.
- Medical conditions & medications – Certain conditions like diabetes, or medications like blood thinners can make gums more likely to bleed.
When to Take Bleeding Gums Seriously
Occasional bleeding might not be a big deal, but persistent bleeding is a red flag. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to:
- Gum recession – Gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and increasing sensitivity.
- Loose or lost teeth – Periodontitis damages the structures that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
- Increased risk of health problems – Gum disease isn’t just about your mouth. Studies have linked it to heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s due to the inflammation and bacteria entering the bloodstream.
How to Keep Your Gums Healthy
The good news? Bleeding gums are usually reversible with the right care! Here’s how you can protect your gum health:
- Brush twice a day with a medium-bristled toothbrush .
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Stay hydrated – drinking water helps wash away bacteria and food debris.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Gum Disease Treatment: What Are Your Options?
If your gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, professional treatment is essential to prevent further damage. Our Chichester dentists may recommend:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) – This removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent further infection.
- Antibiotic treatments – In some cases, at our family dental practice we may prescribe antibiotics to control bacterial infection.
- Surgical options – Advanced gum disease may require gum grafting or flap surgery to restore lost tissue and protect tooth roots.
When Endodontics Comes into Play
If gum disease is left untreated, it can spread beyond the gums, affecting the roots of your teeth and even the surrounding bone. In severe cases, the infection can reach the inner pulp of the tooth, causing pain and potential tooth loss. This is where endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) comes in.
A root canal removes infected tissue from inside the tooth preventing further damage and saving the tooth from extraction. By addressing the infection at its source, endodontics plays a key role in preserving your natural smile.
The sooner gum disease is treated, the less likely it is to cause serious complications – so don’t ignore the signs.
A healthy smile starts with healthy gums!
If your gums are bleeding, swollen or tender, don’t wait for it to get worse. Call our Chichester dental clinic today on 01243 771171 to book a routine appointment so we can get to the root of the problem.