What does it mean if you see hints of pink or red after rinsing your mouth? This is a sign you may be experiencing bleeding gums. Bleeding gums can be caused by something as simple as food that has become trapped between the teeth and caused slight damage to the gums, or perhaps you ate something and it accidentally cut open your gums. However, if you notice your gums are bleeding regularly, you may be experiencing a problem with your oral health that needs attention from us. Some causes of bleeding gums include:
Gum Disease
This condition is very common, occurring in more than half of American adults. One of the biggest concerns about gum disease is that there are not many obvious warning signs that indicate a problem. One of the few warning signs is bleeding gums. Gum disease can develop when plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline. If left to progress, gum disease can cause significant oral health issues.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you are not brushing and flossing your teeth properly, it can cause bleeding gums. It is best to brush and floss your teeth gently. Using vigorous or rough motions can cause damage and trauma to your gums, leading to bleeding issues. If you are unsure how to properly clean your teeth, we will be happy to help you during your next visit.
Medications
You would be surprised by the number of medications that can affect your gums. Any medications that can cause general bleeding issues may cause your gums to bleed more than usual. One medication that can cause this is blood thinners. This is why it is extremely important to notify our team of any changes to your medical history. We may have to change the way we treat your teeth or adjust your medication dose in the days before you visit our office.
If you experience bleeding gums, it is important not to worry, but it is important to visit us soon. If you are in North Huntingdon, PA or the surrounding area, we recommend calling our office to schedule an appointment. We can perform an examination, determine the exact cause, and recommend a treatment plan. We hope to see you soon!
