While we might think that our mouths are robust structures, as we crunch away at peanuts and perhaps pork crackling too, our gums and the skin that covers them are actually delicate, and deserve looking after as much as do our teeth. The job of the spongy pink structures that are our gums is twofold - they are there to both support dental supplies our teeth where they protrude into our mouths, and also to seal our teeth off so that food debris cannot penetrate and infection cannot develop below our gum lines. If our gums bleed then this could be a sign of an underlying problem. If we do not attend to this now we are risk of some costly dental procedures, or perhaps if its too late, we may eventually lose our teeth and have to get an implant.
What Makes Our Gums Bleed?
The most common biological causes of bleeding gums are bacterial, fungal or viral infection that develop in our gums. Conditions like these produce acids and other toxins that can away at the soft flesh and cause inflammation. This causes our dental loupes gums to bleed, and to shrink away, reducing support for our teeth. When we are young, incorrect brushing is most likely to cause bleeding gums. As we grow older, the bleeding is more likely to indicate an underlying problem. Other, non-biological causes may include:
Jabbing at our gums with a toothbrush, cutting ourselves when flossing or inserting dentures, biting down on hard objects, or using aggressive dental x ray chemicals such as tooth whiteners, mouth fresheners and oral antiseptics
Poor oral hygiene that allows tartar and dental plaque to build up
Ignoring mouth sores
Blood thinning medications, or hormonal changes during pregnancy
Burning our mouths on hot food
Frequent gum bleeding indicates a need to seek medical advice. Do not put this off. The cause behind the symptom must be identified, and treated, before your teeth are put at risk.