“My gums are swollen; it bleeds when I brush and floss. Should I be worried ?!”
That’s something probably everyone has asked at some point in life. Did you know that bleeding gums might be a sign of gingivitis - a mild form of gum disease caused by plaque that's built up around your gum line?
Noticing these warning signs is not a reason to worry, but rather an indication that it is time to take control of your dental health.
Bleeding, as well as redness and swelling are classic symptoms. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into the later stages of gum disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis?
The best way to catch gum disease early is to visit your dental professional for regular checkups because it's possible to have gingivitis and not show any symptoms at all.
This could happen to both adults and children.
Visit a dental professional (a hygienist or dentist) if you experience:
Swollen, puffy and bleeding gums
Receding gums (the gum line shrinks away from the tooth making teeth look longer & roots visible)
Occasionally tender gums
A change in gum color from pink to red
Bad taste in your mouth
Loose teeth
Bad breath
Causes and Risk Factors of Gingivitis
We’re sorry but let’s face it: the leading cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene.
But there are other factors as well, such as lifestyle or existing health problems:
Unhealthy diet & lack of vitamins
Smoking
Stress (Thank you 2020!)
Age (According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, 64% of adults over 65 have either moderate or severe periodontal disease).
Medications (some medications can have adverse effects on your oral health).
Diabetes
Osteoporosis
Cardiovascular disease
Pregnancy complications can all contribute to periodontal disease.
Preventing & Treating Gingivitis
You should brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day.
This attention will prevent and reduce the plaque accumulation that leads to gum issues. Even with excellent home oral care, it is difficult to reach well in some places and do good teeth cleaning at home. That's why regular dental hygiene appointments and checkups are a must.
Good news - by detecting gingivitis symptoms early and receiving treatment on time, you can quickly and easily relieve your symptoms and restore your gum.
Our Oral Hygiene Department at ConfiDent Palm Dentist will gladly take you through the process of a healthy smile.
To request an appointment or speak to a Patient Coordinator - contact us at +971 42 4040 21 or tap the WhatsApp button below.
Secondary source educational information gathered by the author.
About ConfiDent ® Palm Dental Clinic.
State-of-the-art restorative and cosmetic dental practice awarded Leading Implant Center in GCC and the Middle East.
Our premium class practice uses sophisticated and precision-engineered German-made technology that helps us to perform all treatments at the highest level.
ConfiDent® Dental Surgery Clinic is located right in the center of the Palm Jumeirah, inside the Golden Mile Galleria Mall, building 8 on the mezzanine floor.