Inflamed gums are more than just a dental nuisance; they can be a signal from your body that something isn’t quite right. When you notice your gums turning red, swelling up, or bleeding when you brush your teeth, it’s time to pay attention. This condition is often referred to as gingivitis and is one of the earliest signs of gum disease.
The inflammation occurs primarily due to plaque buildup—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on our teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, this plaque hardens into tartar which irritates the delicate tissues in our mouths. But what else could be contributing to those inflamed gums?
Several factors play a role in exacerbating gum inflammation:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Infrequent brushing allows plaque to accumulate along the gumline.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and hampers their ability to heal.
- Hormonal Changes: Women may experience increased sensitivity during pregnancy or menstruation.
- Certain Medications: Some drugs can reduce saliva production or lead to abnormal growths in gum tissue.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes and autoimmune disorders increase susceptibility to infections like gingivitis.
- Diet High in Sugar: Sugary foods feed harmful bacteria that accelerate plaque formation.
If you're experiencing symptoms such as swollen gums that make eating uncomfortable or bleeding while brushing—don’t ignore them! The good news is that mild cases can often be reversed with diligent home care practices:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush,
- Floss at least once per day,
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash, and 4. Consider warm saltwater rinses for soothing irritation.
However, if these measures don’t alleviate the problem within days or weeks, it might be time for professional help. Dentists can perform scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning procedure—to remove stubborn tartar below the gumline effectively preventing further complications down the road.
Ignoring inflamed gums isn't just about avoiding discomfort; untreated conditions like gingivitis can escalate into periodontitis—a serious infection leading potentially even tooth loss! Moreover, research has linked poor oral health with systemic issues such as heart disease and diabetes—underscoring how interconnected our bodies truly are!
So next time you feel tenderness around your teeth or see blood after brushing remember—it’s worth addressing sooner rather than later.