It happens unexpectedly. You are brushing your teeth like you always do, thinking about what’s on your to-do list, but when you spit and rinse and there’s blood in the sink.

What is happening? Why are your gums bleeding?

It’s true that bleeding gums is a sign of gum disease, but before you panic, you want to learn more about gum health. The following article explains in more detail about bleeding gums and how you can improve your gum health.

Why Gums Bleed

Bleeding gums happen for many reasons, and it’s not always related to gum disease. Below is a brief overview of the conditions that cause bloody gums:

• Poor Hygiene – Practicing good dental hygiene is important. If you don’t brush and floss well, bacteria gets left behind. Bacterial infections cause swollen, tender, and bleeding gums.
• Medications – Are you taking blood thinners? These medications can cause one’s mouth to bleed and bruise with little effort.
• Pregnancy – Pregnancy causes are kinds of changes in the body because of hormonal fluctuations. It’s not unusual for pregnant women to experience bleeding gums as a side effect of their pregnancy.
• Periodontal Disease – People with periodontal disease (aka gum disease) have deep pockets surrounding their teeth. These pockets make it hard to reach bacteria that’s usually cleared away from tooth brushing and flossing.

How Gum Disease Affects Your Body

Many people don’t realize that their oral health has a direct effect on their overall health. Yes, your gums support your teeth and prevent them from loosening and falling out. Yet, they have a secondary role in your wellness too.

Over the last 20 years, researchers have discovered that gum inflammation can increase one’s risk for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Additionally, researchers have also linked unhealthy gums to cognitive decline and pregnancy complications.

How to Improve Your Gum Health

The good news is that it is not hard to improve your gum health. The first step to take is to schedule an appointment with your dentist and have your gums examined.

Professional dental cleanings are important also to remove the buildup of tartar and plaque around the gum line. Even if you brush and floss twice a day, it is impossible to get rid of all the buildup around the gum line.

If your dentist diagnoses you with a form of gum disease, today’s technology allows for plenty of non-surgical periodontal therapy options such as laser treatments, deep cleanings, and antibiotic treatments that work well to improve gum health and the effects of gum disease.

Bleeding gums are shocking, but when you have the right information and a periodontal specialist like Dr. Kevin Calongne, you have everything you need to improve your gum health and stop bleeding gums. If your gums are tender and swollen, get in touch with us right away. Call West Houston Periodontics today to schedule a professional dental cleaning and gum screening today!