Thursday 25 / April / 2024
While we are always alert on our general health and well being most of us do not take our oral healthcare seriously. Watch out for the early warning signs like bleeding gums along with persistent bad breath, toothache, and receding gums.
Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Gum disease generally doesn’t hurt because of which you may have it for years before you feel pain or discomfort. Gum disease can affect one tooth or a number of teeth. It starts when the bacteria in plaque, which is the sticky, colourless film that constantly forms on the teeth, causes the gums to become inflamed.
What are the main causes of bleeding gums?
Poor oral hygiene, crowding of teeth, systemic diseases like uncontrolled diabetes, bleeding disorders, and untreated receding gums can all lead to bleeding gums. While the main cause of gum disease is bacterial deposits, other factors can also affect the health of your gums. Recent studies indicate that tobacco use may be one of the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of gum disease. In addition, research shows that stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections such as gum disease. Other risk factors that may contribute to gum disease include genetics, poor nutrition, clenching or grinding your teeth, certain medications like anti-coagulants, and anti histamines.
Is there any link between gum and heart disease?
Overall research indicates that chronic gum disease may contribute to the development of heart disease. Gum disease is one of those bacterial infections that can affect conditions outside your mouth. It can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream where they attach to the fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. This condition can cause blood clots and may lead to heart attacks.
Common Symptoms
Check for the following signs to determine if you have gum disease receding gums that bleed when you brush your teeth:
•Red, swollen or tender gums
•Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
•Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Loose teeth
•A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures
If you have any of the above signs then you should consult your dentist. You may be suffering from gum disease which is left untreated could lead eventually to tooth loss.
Treatment
The following tips can play a major role in stopping bleeding, bad breath, and maintaining your pearly whites to their shine:
•Brush twice daily.
•Get your teeth cleaned and polished every 6 months.
•Learn the right method of brushing.
•Don’t ignore any black discolouration (caries) over your teeth. Get caries cleaned and filled before it is too late.
•Don’t prolong your toothache. Seek professional advice for it as soon as you can.
•Get your old fillings checked for leaking or fractured margins.
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Dr. Richa Raj is dentist at Pearly White
Dental Centre, Al Khuwair
Contact: + 968 9705 2624
[email protected]
