If your gums are nice, pink and firm, you are good to go. However, bleeding gums or any deviation from the norm may warrant a visit to the dentist.

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The need for healthy gums

Good oral hygiene does not just refer to healthy teeth but entails other tissues, soft and hard. Gums are an integral part of the mouth and can offer clues about the overall state of oral health. 

Most of us experience gum problems at some point in our lives. The severity of the issue varies in every case. According to studies, 1 in 4 adults over the age of 35 has healthy gums. Red, puffy and bloody gums can indicate a more severe problem that should be addressed promptly. Early intervention usually reverses disease, but it has quick progress if treatment is delayed.

Causes of bleeding gums

Gingivitis, a common cause of bleeding gums, is a consequence of bad dental hygiene or even hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy. It occurs from the accumulation of plaque and bacteria due to improper brushing habits. If not intercepted, it will turn into a more aggressive version known as periodontitis, which infiltrates the bones. Loose teeth are one of the many complications resulting from it.

Dentists could have geriatric patients come in with similar complaints since ill-fitting dentures can sometimes be the culprit. If an oral appliance is traumatizing the gum, you should talk to your dentist.

A sneak peeks of the medical causes

At times, oral symptoms tell us about underlying medical conditions, and we should not ignore those.

Scurvy, caused by Vitamin-C deficiency, presents as bleeding gums. We can confirm it through blood pictures, and its treatment will relieve the symptoms. Lack of Vitamin-K also produces these symptoms and the doctor should detect and correct them at the earliest.

Leukaemia, a form of cancer, has similar oral manifestations and must be ruled out if a patient complains of frequent bleeding.

Diabetes can sometimes lead to swollen and bleeding gums. It is a good idea to get regular checkups and stay updated about your health.

Some people may have bleeding disorders such as haemophilia and thrombocytopenia that go undiscovered until they visit the dentist.

Rounding up

Bleeding gums can have various causes, ranging from vigorous brushing to something as serious as cancer. Oral health reflects our general health and should be looked after. Brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist are vital to having healthy gums.