Is bleeding the only sign of gum disease?
You’re brushing your teeth and notice a bit of pink when you spit out the toothpaste. You might see some bleeding when you floss. Although the smallest amount of blood might not seem like a big deal, if your gums are bleeding consistently, you shouldn’t ignore it. Bleeding gums can happen for some reasons, from gingivitis to a side effect of pregnancy and is not the only sign of gum disease.
Symptoms of gum disease don’t just include bleeding gums, but also bad breath that won’t go away, red or swollen gums and painful chewing. Besides that, you might also have loose teeth, sensitive teeth and receding gums or longer appearing teeth.
Changing your oral care routine can also make your gums bleed, at least at first. Here’s what you can do if you do notice some bleeding.
Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
What can you do should you have bad gums? What you eat and when you eat it also plays a part in keeping your gums from bleeding. Foods that contain lots of sugar or simple carbohydrates increase your risk for tooth and gum problems, as sugar creates an ideal environment for plaque to form.
Commit to a diet that is low in sugar and high in the necessary nutrients found in foods like vegetables. You don’t have to ban sweets from your life. Just remember to eat them in moderation, and brush after these snacks so that the sugar doesn’t have time to stick around.
If you have further questions about dental health, please feel free to contact us at our dental offices in Centreville VA and Arlington VA. Our top dentist in Centreville, VA and Arlington, VA will make you feel comfortable in our conveniently located offices.