Are Bleeding Gums a Sign of A Serious Dental Emergency?
There are many things that can cause your gums to bleed. In general, bleeding gums are a sign that there is something wrong with your dental health. If your gums are itchy, change in color or start receding then this is a sign that you are at risk of gum disease and that you could lose your teeth.
In the early stages, gum disease is not severe, but as the gums continue to weaken and recede they expose the root of the tooth and this is where more serious problems can start to occur.
If your gums bleed when you brush them, then this is not too much to worry about – make a point of brushing your teeth twice a day, and also flossing and using mouth rinse. Gently massage your gums with a soft tooth brush while you are brushing your teeth, and over time the health of your gums should return to normal.
If, however, your gums bleed when you eat apples or corn, or just bleed easily in general, then this is a clear sign of poor dental health and you should definitely seek immediate advice from your dentist. The health of your gums is an indication of the health of the rest of your body, and you should not ignore bleeding or soreness.
The Importance of Preventative Dental Care
Many people are scared of going to the dentists, but by putting off dental treatment until your teeth actually hurt or they are starting to wobble in your mouth, you are likely making things worse. It far better to visit early on to get advice about dental care, and to have minor protective work done, than it is to visit when the problem is serious enough to require an extraction or a root canal.
Gum Disease is Nothing to Be Ashamed Of
In some areas there is a stigma associated with gum disease, because it sounds like something that people get only if they do not take good care of their teeth. The truth is that diet, general health and even family history of the condition can affect an individual’s risk. There is no shame in having gum disease. It is better to discuss your concerns with your dentist and have the condition treated than it is to put it off until it is a serious problem.