October 7, 2020
If you have bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth, it might be cause for concern. If it just happens occasionally, you make chalk it up to damage to your sensitive gum tissue from brushing too hard. Although this is possible, sometimes your bleeding gums are a sign of an infection or a medical condition.
Gingivitis or Gum Disease
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Even in this phase you may have trouble with bleeding gums. As gingivitis progresses into gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, your gums will bleed even more. Most commonly, you’ll notice this bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth since this action can irritate your gum tissue even further. Keep in mind that your risk for gum disease is higher if you have diabetes. Gum disease is usually very preventable with good dental hygiene and regular professional dental cleanings and exams. Dr. David can identify the signs of gum disease and create a plan to reverse its effects.
Certain Medications
Some medications will make your gums more prone to bleeding, especially when your brush or floss. While a blood thinner doesn’t make your gums more sensitive, you’re more prone to bleeding when you’re on a blood thinner. Additionally, an anticoagulant will make you bleed more if you brush too hard.
Poorly Fitting Dentures
If you have dentures and are experiencing trouble with bleeding gums, come see us at Dental Wellness Phoenixville. While gum disease is still possible, it’s more likely that the problem could stem from your dentures rubbing your gum tissue and irritating it. Dr. David can help get your dentures fitting comfortably.
Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamin C is necessary for your body tissue to heal. If you have a vitamin C deficiency for long enough, you could develop swollen gums that bleed easily. Vitamin K is necessary for your blood to clot. Therefore, the cause of your bleeding gums could arise as a result of a vitamin K deficiency.
Anemia
An iron deficiency, also known as anemia, can lead to you having a higher risk for bleeding gums. Since your body doesn’t have enough iron, your blood doesn’t form platelets that restrict bleeding well. Gums that are pale in color instead of pink are a sign of anemia. Other symptoms are a swollen or painful tongue.
Gum Care in Phoenixville, PA
Come see us at Dental Wellness Phoenixville for a diagnosis and treatment for your bleeding gums. Sometimes, they are caused by an oral health problem, an issue with your dental appliance, or from a medication. We can also help determine if you should visit a medical practitioner to see if the source of your bleeding stems from a disorder. Let us know if you have any concerns. We care about your health! Schedule an appointment today.
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