Table of Contents
One of the most common and destructive myths about oral health is that it’s normal for gums to bleed. Dr. Hardy & Dr. Wilson would like everyone in Anderson to know that this is not the case! Imagine if we weren’t talking about gums—should any part of your body start to bleed whenever you touch it?
The truth about bleeding gums is they are a sign of infection and/or irritation and can lead to serious problems that go way beyond your mouth if left untreated. Please read this article and educate yourself on how to keep your family’s teeth and gums safe. Learning to recognize early signs of gum disease can make a big difference in protecting your long-term oral health.
Gums Are Not Supposed to Bleed
No matter what you may have heard, gums are never supposed to bleed. If your gums are bleeding during brushing or flossing, it is likely because you have a mild form of gum disease, known as gingivitis. It may also be because you are brushing too hard or flossing too deep into the gum tissue. Whatever the reason, bleeding gums is a sign that something isn’t quite right with your oral hygiene routine and it may be time to see Dr. Hardy & Dr. Wilson for a dental exam.
But…Don’t Stop Brushing if your Gums Bleed!
We at Cornerstone Dentistry can understand why someone might stop brushing and flossing if they believe that doing so is making their gums bleed. However, not brushing enough is usually the reason gum disease develops. That means putting brushing and flossing on hold will make it worse. Also, make sure to floss properly at least once a day. Flossing removes small, hard-to-reach particles that gum disease-causing bacteria are likely to feed on. If you need help building better habits, here are 5 things to do to help make teeth flossing a habit, and you can also review whether flossing is really necessary.
The Cost of Bleeding Gums
While gingivitis can be dealt with easily and may even go away on its own, it can also lead to advanced gum disease (periodontitis). Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. It can also cause bad breath, fatigue, premature birth, low birth weight, problems with the jawbone, and even heart problems. Research continues to highlight the connection between oral health and overall wellness, including the link between a healthy mouth and healthy heart. At Cornerstone Dentistry, we want all Anderson residents to have healthy gums and teeth, so please contact us if you have questions or concerns about bleeding gums or want to learn more about periodontal treatment.
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
