Bleeding gums are known as gingivitis and can be caused due to a number of reasons. To cure the problem, one has to first understand the underlying reason behind it.
Have you ever wondered why your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? It is a first sign of gingivitis. The primary cause of gingivitis is the bacteria that coats your teeth, and if oral hygiene is poor, it forms a sticky white substance called plaque. The bacteria here proliferates faster and produces toxins that irritates your gums, keeping them swollen and red. When they are left untreated, they will destroy the tissues connecting the gums to the tooth, and eventually the tooth to the bones, causing a deep pocket and eventually attacks the bony structure. It has now progressed into what we call periodontitis which is an irreversible form of gum disease.
Tips to Prevent Sore, Swollen, and Bleeding Gums
1. Brush your teeth at least twice each day. Make sure you follow proper brushing technique. If you're not sure what to do, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for a quick lesson at your next appointment.If your gums bleed while brushing, change your toothbrush and buy a soft bristle toothbrush, so that you can go easy on your gums at first.
2. Floss daily. It doesn't take more than a few minutes, but flossing may be the most important thing you can do to prevent gum problems now and in the future.
Flossing your teeth is very beneficial as it helps clean up the area in between teeth, removing bacteria and food from your gums. However flossing can hurt, so make sure to strengthen your gums by brushing them regularly.
3. Eat a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet, including plenty of vitamin C and calcium, may minimize the likelihood of experiencing gum problems.
Eat citrus fruits , like oranges, grapefruit, lemon and lime. Guavas or pomegranates should also be included in the diet to ensure healthy gums as these fruits contain large quantities of vitamin C.
4. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water, especially after eating, can help wash food off your teeth and make it less likely that bacteria will form gum-damaging plaque.
5. Say no to tobacco. If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, try to quit.
6. Be cautious about extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. When you're experiencing gum problems, you may find you're more comfortable consuming lukewarm or cool foods and beverages.
7. Massage. Massage the gums daily with a mixture of salt, black pepper, turmeric and sesame oil.
8. Honey . Research indicates that honey has many anti-microbial properties perfect for fighting gum disease. It can fight bacteria with much faster rate. Simply rub some honey along the gum line after brushing and let the enzymes do their work.
9. Lukewarm water.With a pinch of salt soaked in a glass of lukewarm water, make a homemade saline solution. This will help increase circulation in your gums and reduce the swelling. Use this to rinse in the morning and in the evening.
10. Avoid alcohol and aspirin as it will affect the ability of the blood to clot.
11. Use a good mouth wash.
12. Clean the tongue. Plaques are formed even if the tongue is unclean. Make sure to clean your tongue twice a day with the help of a tongue cleaner.Gum diseases can become serious problem if left untreated or if treated improperly. Consult your dentist if the situation is worst you may be in need of surgical procedures.
