It’s easy to do; you’re brushing your teeth and thinking about everything you have to do that day, and when you spit into the sink, there it is: a reddish tint. Immediately, you think, “Was I brushing too hard, or is something else going on?”
The truth is that bleeding gums are always a sign that your body is trying to tell you something. You could be brushing too hard, but it could be something bigger.
So, what do you need to know to take the best care of your teeth AND your gums?
What Your Bleeding Gums May Be Trying to Tell You
When you brush your teeth too hard, it can cause your gums to bleed, but there are other reasons to be aware of, including the following:
- Gum disease — When plaque builds up along your gumline, it can cause swelling, bleeding, and inflammation. Without regular preventive cleanings and good oral hygiene, this inflammation can advance to periodontal disease. Without proper treatment, periodontal disease can affect your jawbone and lead to tooth loss.
- Pregnancy/hormonal changes — During pregnancy, menopause, or puberty, you could be more susceptible to bleeding gums.
- Vitamin deficiencies or health issues — If you’re lacking vitamin C or K, your gums might bleed. Or if you have liver disease or leukemia, it could cause bleeding gum tissue as well.
- Certain medications — Blood thinners and other medications could increase the risk of bleeding gums. If this applies to you, ask your doctor or dentist about it.
When to Seek Care
Once you notice that your gums are bleeding, do your best to brush more gently. But if the problem doesn’t go away on its own, it’s important to contact our dental office for an appointment. The sooner we can treat the issue, the better off you’ll be.
Need a Dentist in Greeley, CO?
If you’re looking for quality dental care in Greeley or the surrounding area, we hope you’ll consider Norco Family Dental! We treat patients of all ages, so you can bring your entire family to our comfortable office.
When it’s time for your next visit, please feel free to reach out to us at (970) 356-5277.