Many people will experience bleeding gums at some point during their lifetime. Without proper oral hygiene, this occurrence can be serious and indicative of more troubling conditions below the gumline. Gum disease can wreak havoc in the mouth and on the body, and when the gums bleed, it can be a red flag that changes need to be made to prevent more damage.
Though there are recommendations on how to care to properly care for the teeth, many individuals do not consistently follow the needed routine to prevent gum disease. It may require changing bad habits or adding new items to the routine, but these activities can help correct bleeding gums.
Brushing the teeth is a crucial part of oral hygiene, but if it is not done correctly, it will not be effective against tooth decay or tartar buildup. In addition to using an electric toothbrush twice a day for at least two minutes, be sure to use fluoride toothpaste for protection against a number of oral diseases and to promote optimum gum health.
A toothbrush cannot get between the teeth as effectively as a piece of floss or an interdental toothbrush. Pockets of plaque like to hide between the teeth and cause problems that cannot be seen until it is too late. When a person first starts to use floss, it can cause the gums to bleed. This should be mild bleeding that will go away after a week or two.
In addition to brushing with fluoride toothpaste, add a mouthwash with fluoride to the oral hygiene routine. Not only does it prevent plaque from developing in the hard-to-reach areas between the teeth, on the surfaces, or on the gum, it can help flush out any debris or bacteria that have taken up residence in the mouth. Mouthwash is also good for killing pockets of bacteria that cause halitosis or bad breath.
If the gums have severe bleeding, they should be looked at by a dental health professional. Dental professionals recommend scheduling routine cleaning and oral exams throughout the year, as these appointments can reveal if serious gum conditions or tooth decay exist. When it comes to oral hygiene, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Keeping sugary foods and drinks out of the diet, as well as limiting starches, can reduce plaque buildup. Adding in fruits and vegetables that are high in minerals and vitamins can strengthen the gums and help them be more resistant to disease or bacteria. Avoiding alcohol and smoking is also beneficial for gum health.
These routine changes or additions are simple, but they can have a profound impact on oral hygiene. When consistently practiced, hygiene changes reduce the likelihood of bleeding gums and the development of tooth decay.
Request an appointment here: https://www.allsmilesdentalcenter.com or call All Smiles Dental Center at (210) 714-7429 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
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