If you go to the dentist and you notice that the tools used for cleaning your teeth are making your gums bleed, it’s because they aren’t used to that sort of interaction.
October is a month full of scares. You don’t blink when you see blood and guts in your latest scary movie marathon. But things are different when you’re getting ready for bed, and you find blood in the bathroom sink after you brush your teeth or floss. Here’s what to do if you have bleeding gums.
Improve Your Oral Hygiene
The first step is to improve your oral hygiene routine. Bleeding gums are caused by plaque build-ups that eventually turn into tartar. If left unaddressed, this problem can eventually evolve into gum disease or something much worse. You need to start brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. You’ll also need to set up more appointments with your dentist.
Change Your Toothbrush and Floss
If you go to the dentist and you notice that the tools used for cleaning your teeth are making your gums bleed, it’s because they aren’t used to that sort of interaction. Floss can reach the gaps between your teeth, so it’s important to use it as often as possible.
During this time, evaluate the toothbrush and floss that you’ve been using. Change out your toothbrush, because the bristles might be too firm, causing your gums to bleed. It’s also important to switch to a new toothbrush after you’ve had a cold because the bacteria on your old toothbrush can make you sick again. If you haven’t been flossing, start doing so again. Just be careful when you do, because you don’t want to press down too hard.
Eat Better
Another reason why your gums could be bleeding is due to a poor diet. Sugary foods can help encourage the growth of plaque, while simple carbs can also do the same. Change your diet to include more vegetables. Reducing sugar intake is a useful tactic, but this doesn’t mean you need to cut the sweet stuff out of your life entirely, especially if you’re looking forward to Halloween.
Visit Your Dentist
Even if you have changed their ways in the name of helping your gums get healthier than they were, you might still have problems with your dental health, oral health, and bleeding gums. Luckily, your dentist has some advice that you can follow. Set up a new appointment today, since it might lead to the discovery of a deeper health concern that you weren’t expecting.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, or Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!