If you have bleeding gums you should consult your dentist to find out the reason, regardless of whether or not they are painful.
Healthy gums do not bleed. Although bleeding gums can be a symptom of a medical condition, the most common reasons are teeth-related.
Why do gums bleed?
If oral hygiene is not sufficiently or properly maintained, dental plaque, which is full of bacteria, builds up on the teeth. Our mouths are populated by a great many micro-organisms, which we take into our bodies when we eat. As long as the micro-organisms are in proper balance oral health is good. If for whatever reason there is significant build-up of bacterial deposits the gums can react by swelling and bleeding.
In addition to excessive build-up of plaque, gum disease can be caused or exacerbated by various other health conditions, by medicines taken, by smoking, stress, poor nutrition and diet and the hormonal changes that come about during pregnancy, menopause and puberty, as well as by certain chronic diseases such as diabetes, hereditary factors and more.
Prevention:
- Regular and proper oral and dental hygiene
- Regular visits to your dentist, approximately every 6 months
