We all know about the importance of a consistent, home-based oral care routine that involves brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and seeing your South London dentist regularly. But even people who are diligent about their oral hygiene have dental problems from time to time, and the key to ensuring that these problems don’t develop into serious issues that require invasive interventions is to catch them early.
If you notice blood in your mouth when you brush or floss – even if it’s just a little bit – contact the team at Highland Woods Dentistry and make an appointment to see your family dentist for an assessment.
Bleeding gums is often the first sign of gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, and it is usually identified by red, swollen or bleeding gums. You may notice this at home, but it’s often first diagnosed during a routine dental checkup when your oral healthcare professional cleans your teeth.
Gingivitis is a condition that, if caught early, can usually be treated easily with little fuss or cause for concern. Proper oral healthcare can even reverse early gingivitis and have your gums back in perfect condition. However, if gingivitis is left untreated, it can develop into severe gum disease that could cause you to lose your teeth.
If you have bleeding gums, here are some things you can do at home in addition to seeing your South London dentist.
• Brush and floss more often. Talk to your dental hygienist about how often you should be brushing and flossing and ask them to teach you how to brush and floss properly. For many people, this is something we learn in our childhood, and after many years we tend to get a little bit lazy when it comes to the technique and duration of our oral care routines.
• Rinse with an antiseptic wash. Antiseptic mouthwash kills the bacteria in your mouth that can cause plaque, tooth decay, cavities, and it can even help reverse early-stage gingivitis.
• Eat healthy. Avoid starchy, sugary foods and reach for fresh vegetables and low-acidic fruits whenever possible.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking water helps you avoid acidic, sugary drinks like pop and juice, plus it helps to rinse away debris and food particles when your toothbrush is not nearby.
If your gums are red and irritated, if you see any blood when you brush or floss, or if you’re overdue for a dental checkup, call our team of experts today. We’ll assess your situation and get you on the road to healthy teeth and gums that can last a lifetime.