Bleeding Gums – Should I See A Dentist?

If you discover bleeding gums when brushing your teeth, you should ask yourself, “Do I need to see the dentist?” If the problem is the result of using a hard brush against sensitive gums, the answer is “No.” You need to change your toothbrush. You should be using one with soft or softer bristles. Yet there are instances when you should talk to a dentist or a doctor.

When To Talk To A Doctor Or Dentist
It is a good idea to consult your dentist or other health care provider if you notice the following symptoms:

• The bleeding is not a one-time thing. Your gums bleed every time or every other time you brush your teeth
• This is not the first time you have had gum problems in the past month or so
• Your gums are sore to the touch
• Your teeth wiggle
• There are new spaces between your teeth
• The space between your gum line and teeth has grown larger
• When brushing or eating, you notice your teeth do not seem to fit together properly

These are all clear indications you need to arrange a visit to your dentist.

What A Dentist Will Do
Your dentist will initially examine your teeth and gums. He or she will note any problems than ask a series of questions. These should include

• How frequently do your gums bleed?
• Do they bleed only when brushing? How hard or soft are the bristles of your toothbrush?
• How recent is the bleeding?
• Have you ever suffered from bleeding gums and other gum or teeth problems before?
• How often do you brush your teeth?
• What type of toothpaste do you use – a commercial product, brand name toothpaste, no name or an all-natural product such as OraMD?
• How frequently do you floss?
• Do you rinse your teeth? What kind of mouthwash do you use? Does it contain alcohol – one of the causes of bacterial growth in your mouth?
• Do you use any other type of tooth cleansers or aids?
• When did a dentist or oral hygienist last clean your teeth?
• What kind of food and nutrition are you eating? Too many sweets or carbohydrates may cause bacterial growth. Have you changed it lately?
• Do you have any other symptoms e.g. bad breath, loose teeth?
• Are you on any type of medication e.g. blood thinners?
• Do you have any medical condition such as diabetes, leukemia or cancer?

After examining all the possibilities, the dentist will diagnose the problem. If it is the early stages of gingivitis, he or she will treat the problem. He or she will do a thorough cleaning of your teeth. The dentist will remove the plaque and make sure the gum line is clear of bacteria. He will then recommend what is the best remedy for early gum disease – a proper oral hygiene routine.

If the situation has progressed beyond gingivitis, treatment differs. The dentist will send you to a dental surgeon. He or she will correct the situation. Treatment will consist of removing and replacing lost and loose teeth. Cleaning may help restore the rest. The surgeon will also recommend good oral hygiene practices to prevent the problem coming back.

Conclusion
Whether or not you know what causes bleeding gums, you should see a dentist or doctor. A dentist can address the situation. He or she will treat you with the correct remedy for the problem. Whether it is gingivitis or periodontitis, you will need to follow up the treatment with a solid oral hygiene program.