Bleeding, Swollen And Red Gums – Why?

One of the most common dental issues adults face in North America is not a bad tooth. It is not cracked teeth. It is gum disease with its bad breath and bleeding, swollen and red gums. In order to understand this problem, we have to know what causes it and what the symptoms are. In this way, we can come up with a solution – a program for prevention.

What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a dental problem affecting around 75% of all American adults over 35-years of age. It comes in two types or phases. The first stage is gingivitis. This is the mild form. It causes some discomfort. It is treated easily. If caught in time, there are no severe and long lasting repercussions.

The second stage or phase of gum disease is periodontitis. This is the severe form of gum disease. A remedy tends to involve a dental surgeon. Treatment may actually include the removal of the affected teeth. This will affect your smile and your pocket book.

What Causes Gum Disease?
Both gingivitis and periodontitis are the result of bad bacteria left to grow unchecked in mouth recesses and around teeth and gums. As bacteria grow, it produces plaque – a sticky, off-white substance that clings to the teeth. Within the covering of plaque, the bacteria begin to create pockets of infection. The bacteria also start to eat into the teeth and connective tissue, loosening the connection between the teeth and gums. As a result, the gap between teeth increases. The gum line also appears to recede.

Bacteria do more than form plaque. When plaque hardens, it becomes tartar. Tartar forms on both the gum line and beneath it. This hard substance is not removable by your toothbrush. It requires the services of a dentist.

Symptoms Of Gum Disease
Symptoms of gum disease are not always obvious. In general, the following may indicate the presence of gum disease:

• Red, swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Gums that are sore to the touch
• Bright or dark mouth tissue
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath that is constant
• Plaque and/or tartar

How To Treat Gum Disease
The most common way to treat gum disease is to see a dentist. After a thorough cleaning, he or she will recommend you step up or put into place a practice of proper oral hygiene. In doing so, you must adopt the following practices, making them part of your daily routine

• Brush your teeth after each meal and following snacks. Use a quality toothpaste, a natural product, or a commercial name brand
• Floss daily
• Rinse and/or gargle to help loosen and wash away small particles of food. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash.
• Make sure you see your dentist or oral hygienist annually for a cleaning as well as a check-up

Conclusion
The answer to why you have bleeding, swollen and red gums is usually simple. You have gum disease. If you want to get rid of it while preventing a reoccurrence, talk to your dentist. He or she can recommend a simple and effective way to put into place a good oral hygiene practice.