Do your gums bleed when you floss and brush your teeth? According to the American Academy of Periodontology, approximately three out of four people suffer from bleeding gums. Several reasons can cause this problem. At Dental Image Therapy Centres, we want you to be comfortable and confident in your smile. So let’s talk about gums and what you can do to prevent and treat it.

What is it?

Having bleeding gums can be caused by a number of things. One of the primary causes is a disease called gingivitis, which is an  inflammation of the gums. If you have a lot of tartar or plaque build up on your teeth, it can cause bleeding gum. The bacteria from tartar and plaque causes irritation to the gum line and inflammation that affects your oral health. As a result, bleeding gums can increase the risk of bad breath and sensitivity.
If you have bleeding gums, we recommend going to your dentist to see what is causing it and the treatment needed before it turns into a bigger problem. Untreated, bleeding gums can lead to periodontal disease that causes gum recession and tooth loss. 

Factors that lead to bleeding 

So what other factors can make your gums bleed besides gingivitis? 

• Brushing too hard
• Using a toothbrush with hard bristles (we recommend using soft bristled toothbrushes)  
• Flossing incorrectly 
• Irregular brushing and flossing

These can all cause your gums to bleed. Having a poor diet where you don’t get enough vitamins C and K can harm your gum’s health. 

Bleeding gums can also be an indicator of other medical problems such as heart disease or diabetes. Moreover, other infections and smoking can be the reason for this gum disease. 

Treatment

The best way to prevent bleeding gums is to maintain proper oral hygiene habits. Always choose brushes that work best for your teeth and aren’t harmful to your gums. Floss regularly and correctly to prevent plaque from building up in those hard to reach places. And remember to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. 

If you notice that your gums are bleeding, act immediately and book your dental appointment. Call us today to get your dental treatment at one of our clinics. Dental Image Therapy Centres has two locations in Winnipeg, one in St. Vital Centre and the other at Garden City Shopping Centre. We can’t wait to bring confidence to your smile and answer any questions you have about gum disease, proper oral hygiene habits and more.