Bleeding gums have many causes. Gingivitis, i.e. inflammation of the gums, is the most common one. It is mostly due to bacterial deposits (plaque). While felt to be harmless, it may have far reaching consequences. These range from bad breath to pain and even to the loss of otherwise healthy teeth. Bleeding gums are not a trifling matter, but a serious condition. Therefore you should see your dentist as soon as you notice it.
Bleeding gums are unsightly – the gums are reddened and inflamed or ashen gray.
Prevention helps to avoid all of these problems. Brush your teeth vigorously and at regular intervals at home or get professional help: Professional cleaning removes plaque thoroughly even at sites inaccessible to your tooth brush (interdental spaces and gingival margins). This reduces or altogether controls bleeding gums, gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Proper oral hygiene at home plus frequent professional cleaning will leave you with healthy gums, a fresh breath and white teeth so that you stand a good chance of enjoying your crunchy apple for a lifetime.
Untreated gingivitis may eventually lead to periodontitis. No longer confined to the gums, this condition also affects the periodontal ligament and the alveolar bone and may cause bone loss, tooth loss and even systemic diseases like atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Periodontitis needs the attention of a professional periodontist. He can usually halt the process and even revert it at times.
Your gums may, however, also recede without prior infection (gum recession). Grafting of the gums and other “soft” techniques will often restore your winning smile (periodontal plastic surgery).
