Bleeding gums happen to about three quarters of American adults over the age of 35. Bleeding gums should definitely not go unnoticed and should be cared for and treated by a dentist as soon as possible. There are many reasons why your gums may bleed and it could result in something simple to treat or it may be something more serious that only a dentist can fix. Here are some examples of why your gums may be bleeding.
Inadequate oral hygiene
This is a very common reason for gums to bleed. If you are not brushing and flossing enough or as well as you should, tarter and plaque can get stuck in between your teeth and cause major bacteria to grow which then causes your gums to swell and bleed. Even if you feel you brush often but don not take the time to floss daily, this can really cause havoc to your gums. Make it a commitment to brush and floss daily because healthy gums can become diseased within a 24-36 hour period from bacteria.
Tooth infection
Gum bleeding may also be caused not only from plaque build up but from a tooth being infected. It could possibly be a filling, cap, crown, or a fractured tooth that traps bacteria and allows it to invade the area causing the blood. Regular visits and cleanings from your dentist can help prevent this from taking place.
Hormonal changes
Changes in your body such as pregnancy can actually cause gum disease. It is very common for a pregnant woman to have gingivitis during her second trimester. Just make sure to take extra care of your teeth during pregnancy and floss often.
Medications
Side effects from certain medications can make your mouth dry and cause gum tissues to be more reactive to plaque and less protective of the gums. This is common with high blood pressure medications.
Genetics
In some cases, bleeding gums may just be a result of genetics. If your parents had gum disease, there is a good chance you could also have the same health issue. If you are not sure if you have a family history, your dentist can help you get tested and find out for sure.
Be sure to visit your dentist for regular check ups and cleaning every six months to treat any oral health issues you may have.