Bleeding gums is an indication of a person’s lack of proper oral care thereby increasing the chances of contacting gum diseases. The major cause of bleeding gums is bacteria finding their way through the mouth because they consider the environment suitable for their growth. Plaque is formed when food particles and residue stay in the teeth and gums when a person does not thoroughly clean the mouth area by brushing and flossing. In time, plaque formation becomes excessive and will become the suitable ground for bacteria to lodge and breed. This will lead to dental problems or diseases such as reddishness, irritability and bleeding gums resulting from gingivitis or periodontal diseases. Bleeding may also be caused by injury from trauma or brushing the teeth too hard.
Other causes of bleeding gums maybe the onset of diseases such as gingivitis; seen in individuals with swollen and tender gums. This disease is caused by lack of oral hygiene due to the excessive growth of bacteria inside the mouth feeding on the plaque and tartar formed in the tooth and around the gums. This will later lead to bleeding of the gums which should have been prevented by regular brushing and flossing of the teeth.
However, periodontal problems will result to gingivitis if this kind of dental issue is left untreated. Gingivitis is a gum disease that can damage the bones supporting the teeth, and the recession of the gum lines and eventually, resulting to teeth loss.
The signs and symptoms of this disease are bleeding and swelling of the gums; halitosis or bad breath and pus formation; and reddish or purplish discoloration of the gums. Oftentimes, this disease will result to degenerative diseases like diseases of the heart and stroke.
Additionally, brushing the teeth too hard will also damage the gums, and will cause erosion to the teeth minerals and enamel, thus increases the sensitivity of the teeth to acidic level. The gums can also become tender due to hormonal changes that normally occur particularly during the periods of pregnancy, puberty and menopause. Deficiency of the nutrients needed for healthy gums like Vitamin C and K would also result to bleeding gums. Other factors that would lead to this kind of condition may include the use of improperly fitting dentures, insufficient flossing procedure, excessive smoking and chewing of tobacco, and even the use of certain medications such as nasal spray, oral contraceptives and anti-depressant drugs.
