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Bleeding Gums

The gums are the structures that are present beneath the teeth. They have grooves in which teeth are embedded; each of these grooves is called a gingivus, or gingiva in plural. Sometimes, the gums begin to bleed. This is generally referred to as bleeding gums . However, it must be noted that the bleeding of the gums can occur due to several reasons and health conditions. Lack of proper oral hygiene can cause bacterial infections to occur on the teeth and this is one of the most important causes of bleeding gums. However, bleeding gums can also occur due to genetic factors and conditions such as gingivitis, dry mouth, trench mouth, etc.

Thus, when gums begin to bleed, the dentists can understand that there is some underlying malady that is present in the dental structure. Any problem with the regions that are near the teeth, especially in the gums, is known as a periodontal condition . Bleeding gums are the most common periodontal condition.

If the gums are not overtly bleeding, dentists use a particular device known as a periodontal probe and press the gums. This probe indicates whether the gums are bleeding in any manner. Once the condition of bleeding gums has been established, the dentists can prescribe suitable modes of treatment.

Causes of Bleeding Gums

There are many causes of bleeding gums, of which viral and bacterial infections are the most common. The herpes simplex virus causes a particular condition bleeding gums which is known as the acute herpetic gingivostomatitis. Even fungal infections can cause gums to bleed.

The accumulation of plaque is a significant factor too. Plaque , if not removed, can harden into tartar. Once the tartar is formed, several serious conditions can occur in the mouth, especially the condition known as periodontitis.

Certain medications and dietary patterns can also aggravate this condition. People who suffer from the blood diseases of leukemia and anemia often have this condition. Many medications are rejected by the body or show a side effect in the form of bleeding gums.

Symptoms of Bleeding Gums

The symptoms of bleeding gums are the most apparent. The gums begin to ooze out blood. However, this may not always happen. The gums may just appear tender or raw at first and their color may begin to change from a healthy pink to red. There may also be patches or blots of red coloration on the gums. Gums may feel pained on pressing, especially after brushing and flossing. The toothbrush might turn pink at brushing because of the presence of blood in the gums.

Treatment and Prevention of Bleeding Gums

The condition of bleeding gums is treated symptomatically. This condition can be definitely treated, except when it is caused due to a chronic condition such as leukemia. After the treatment, the patient will be put on medication so that the condition does not recur.

Maintaining proper dental hygiene is the surest way of control this condition. Regular visits to dental hygienists must be scheduled and their advice taken seriously, because in many cases, bleeding gums will not be apparent at first.