Quite often, even though we brush our teeth, use dental floss, or eat hard foods like apples and meat, we may feel our gums bleeding.

In some cases, it may be normal, but if it happens frequently, it is a sign of a problem that should not be ignored.

BLEEDING GUMS

Bleeding gums may be a sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, or its more serious form, periodontitis. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that develop on the teeth. Along with food debris, they create plaque. When plaque irritates the gums, causing a superficial infection, this is called gingivitis.

Its symptoms include swelling, redness, and a feeling of irritation in the gums.

BAD BREATH

Bad breath may also occur. There is no pain at this stage, but the gums bleed much more easily when brushing. So, the solution is simple: be particularly diligent with your oral hygiene.

SOLUTIONS: Use an electric toothbrush for better results, a special antibacterial mouthwash, and floss with every cleaning to reduce the chances of gum disease.

If the symptoms are more severe and accompanied by tooth mobility or possible shifting of teeth, then we are dealing with periodontitis. The cause is long-term neglected oral hygiene, where tartar has destroyed the bone that supports the teeth!

The result is their mobility or even displacement. Periodontitis may also occur due to hormonal changes, such as adolescent periodontitis, menopause, or diabetes!

What does the treatment include?

Initially, treatment may be conservative (scaling, i.e., cleaning the tartar inside the gums), and if necessary, surgical restoration may follow.

Consistent, diligent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups at intervals of less than six months are required. It must be clear that the bone that has been lost cannot be restored. Therefore, ongoing cooperation between the dentist and the patient is necessary to prevent relapses.

DISEASES

There are other possible reasons for bleeding gums. Systemic diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis, cancer, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal disorders, and, more generally, immune system problems. These conditions usually present with the above symptoms combined with other gum damage.

Also, medications such as aspirin or blood thinners can be causes. Some infections caused by viruses or bacteria may also lead to bleeding gums. In any case, if you notice your gums bleeding while brushing, it is a symptom you need to check.

The advice of Surgeon Dentist Dr. Amalia Panayiotou is invaluable. For more advice, contact her at 25251353.