Our Dental Blog

Why Do My Gums Bleed?

May 30, 2018
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Many issues that arise in your smile will hide symptomless while they continue to worsen behind the scenes. With tooth decay and gum disease, it is unlikely for you to feel pain or notice any symptoms until these conditions are in advanced stages. Bleeding gums, however, could be a signal of gingivitis, the early sign of gum disease. To make use of your body’s signal of inflammation, it is important that you seek professional care if your gums are bleeding almost every time you brush. Treating gum disease early can sometimes reverse the disease. However, when gum disease is left to progress, it can reach a stage that can never be cured. Advanced gum disease can only be treated to manage the complications it can cause. 

Why Do Gums Bleed?

Bleeding gums do not usually hurt. If there is no pain, it can lull you into believing that bleeding gums is a harmless issue like brushing your teeth too hard (which could be happening). However, bleeding gums is often a sign of the development of gingivitis, which is inflammation of your gums caused by oral bacteria. Bacteria built up along and under the gum line can irritate the tissue causing your gums to look red and puffy.

Importance of Treatment

Your dentist can help determine the cause of your bleeding gums. If gum disease is at the root of the issue, a deep periodontal cleaning may help to reverse the issue. If gum disease is allowed to advance, it can cause deterioration of the gums, tooth loss, and damage to the bones supporting your teeth. Advanced gum disease has also been linked to serious health issues like heart disease. If gingivitis is caught and treated early, it may help lower your risk of developing complications from the disease.

Bleeding Gums Could Be a Sign of a Problem

If your gums bleed when you brush them or if you notice any other persistent issues with your smile, it is important that you get into the dentist as soon as you can.  To schedule a consultation, call Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.