We want you and your family to know that excellent care of your oral health goes beyond benefitting your teeth–it also impacts your gum health. In fact, the quality of your gums is a good indicator of your general health. If you have gums that bleed easily, there are many potential factors that could be causing this condition.
Most often, bleeding gums are the result of steady plaque buildup along the gum line, leading to gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. However, your gum problems could result from any of the following factors:
– Aggressive brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard will irritate the gums, which is why you should use gentle circular motions instead of a sawing technique, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
– Vitamin deficiency: Poor intake of essential vitamins, Vitamins C and K in particular, can result in bleeding gum tissue.
– Anemia: Being deficient for iron causes a shortage of red blood cells and lack of hemoglobin in the blood, resulting in easier bleeding.
– Medication: Taking blood thinners such as aspirin or ibuprofen or having a prescription for some blood pressure medications can cause gum inflammation as a side effect.
– Smoking: Smoking tobacco produces toxins that can dry your mouth and irritate the gums.
– Hormonal changes: Menstruation and pregnancy both cause hormones to spike, altering your mouth’s chemical balance and impacting the gum tissue.
– Infection: Serious infections such as periodontitis can damage the gums and even destroy the bones underlying your teeth. Periodontitis is also linked to risk of stroke and heart attack.
If you have gums that frequently bleed or you are otherwise concerned about your oral health, call Park Dental of Edmonds & Snohomish at 360-568-2153 today and schedule a visit with Dr. Kevin Park, our dentist, soon.
