You brush your teeth and spit out the paste only to discover that it’s now red with blood. A quick check in the mirror shows your gums are bleeding. Is it something serious or nothing to be worried about? Here are a few facts that any dentist in Philadelphia can tell you about bleeding gums.
Changes in Your Mouth
Assuming you haven’t had an injury, bleeding in the gums is generally caused by irritation. One of the more common causes of this irritation is a change in your oral health routine. Going from a manual toothbrush to an electric can irritate your gums initially. This generally stops after a few days and is not a cause for concern.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is a major source of gum irritation. Bacteria living in your mouth can build up around your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing generally takes care of this, but it can get worse if you’re not diligent about your oral care. Brushing, flossing, and getting your teeth cleaned at your dentist in Philadelphia’s office is usually enough. If you notice a change in the way your teeth align or swollen gums, you should get them checked immediately.
Pregnancy Hormones
If you’re pregnant, certain hormones can cause your gums to become more sensitive. This is typically nothing serious, but you should talk to your dentist about making chances to your oral health routine.
New Medications
Certain medications can cause changes in your mouth. In particular, blood thinners and blood pressure medication can prevent blood clots from forming normally. Tiny cuts that would normally clot quickly instead bleed profusely. You should tell your dentist if you start taking these medications, as you may need a change in your oral care.
While having blood in your mouth is never a good sign, in some cases it can be relatively benign. Examine the possible cause, but always speak to your dentist in Philadelphia if you’re worried.
What Does Bleeding Gums Mean?
For more information and to develop a treatment plan for you, consult with us today! Call us now (215) 567-2666 or visit our website here.