Our lovely teeth work so hard every day; they chew and gnaw so much for us. Of course, the toothbrush can be blamed for the sensitivity of the gums – when it is too hard, but, most likely, it is not to blame. Learn possible reasons for sensitive gums in this article.
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Major Causes Of Sensitive Gums
Here are some possible causes of sensitive gums you should know about.
Overdoing Dental Floss
If you floss regularly and find that your gums are bleeding, you may be doing it wrong. The floss really doesn’t have to go just between the teeth. In fact, flossing up and down can cut and damage the gums. Instead, you can use this technique; use the thread around each tooth, create an open loop, like the letter “C”, and gently move the thread up and down without putting too much pressure on the gums.
When deciding which floss to buy, there are a few things to consider. First, we all have gaps between teeth of different sizes, which means that one thread will not work for all family members. Some people need to fold the thread two times, or vice versa, use thinner threads. Second, make sure the thread you are using is non-toxic.
Violation In Oral Hygiene Practices
We know it’s very easy to give up brushing or flossing in the evening after work when you’re tired and all you want is to sleep. However, know that temporary violation of oral hygiene practices can also cause bleeding in gums. Research shows that healthy gums can bleed and sore in just one day without proper oral care!
Bad Habits
Certain habits, including teeth, grinding, clenching, biting on burrs and nails, opening bottles with your teeth, and drinking alcohol, causes a tooth to wear out and gum inflammation. Thus, to avoid the problem, you will have to give up an addiction.
Though other habits may be comparatively easier to quit, giving up alcohol addiction can be risky. You will need special help from a rehab center for this. If you plan not to take their help due to financial problems, do not worry; there are special aids that can assist.
Besides, there are several private state-funded rehabs that can provide low-cost treatment to those in need. Taking such assistance would help you live a life with sobriety and also save you from several dental, mental, and physical health problems.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a term for inflammation of the gums, usually caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar, as well as an increase in bacterial levels. It is frequent but reversible. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the formation of tooth disease such as gingivitis. Therefore, the safest way to stop the bleeding of the gums is to make an appointment with the dentist for deep teeth cleaning.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease (the complex of tissues surrounding the tooth) is irreversible and can occur if gingivitis is not properly treated. Its symptoms can range from bleeding gums and bad breath to misaligned teeth and malocclusion.
It has also been linked to other medical conditions such as diabetes and heart problems. If your teeth are a little loose, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Dental Infections
Dental infections can develop as a result of various causes, such as tooth decay. Some signs of infection include swelling, a bad taste in the mouth, throbbing pain, sensitivity to heat, or spontaneous pain.
If a tooth is infected, it is possible that the infection will spill over to the gums, forming a pimple-like bubble. It may bleed and be painful to the touch. With dental infections, you also need to hurry up and immediately make an appointment with the dentist.
Medications You Take
Some medications, such as blood thinners, can have side effects, including bleeding gums. They simply reduce the blood’s ability to clot. There are some other medications that are antidepressants and medicines for high blood pressure that can harm the gums.
Pregnancy
A woman’s body is constantly changing during pregnancy. Due to the increase in the amount of good old hormones, blood flow to the gums can increase, making them hypersensitive to plaque and bacteria. Result? Gum soreness and bleeding while brushing your teeth. Only a doctor can solve these problems.
Eating Refined Foods
If you’re looking for another reason to choose natural foods, here’s some information to think about. Some ingredients in processed/refined foods can irritate the gums and cause minor bleeding. If your gums are sensitive, the culprits may be sugar, fried foods, synthetic preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, and hormone-laden meats.
Try changing part of your diet. Use supplements containing calcium and magnesium along with vitamins C and D in consultation with your physician. Make sure you are getting the daily recommended intake of these nutrients.
Addiction To Sour And Sweet Foods
If you have sensitivity to your teeth and gums, it is not the best choice to sour and sweet eat foods. Sweet and acid naturally erode the outer layer of tooth enamel. If you’re worried about your teeth, avoid citrus fruits, wine, vinegar and salad dressings, all kinds of salted and pickled foods, and sodas and tonics.
When you drink soda, you bathe your teeth in this liquid, which often contains citric acid or too much sugar. The same goes for pre-made cookies, chips, and store-baked goods. However, even organic lemons have devastating effects on the gums over time. So brush your teeth, rinse your mouth well after eating such foods.
Stress And Anxiety
While stress and anxiety may not be directly related to bleeding gums, they can definitely play a part. The accumulated stress can lead to inflammation of the blood vessels, destruction of soft tissues in the mouth, and the general condition of the body will make it difficult for sensitive gums to heal. Stress is the enemy and destroyer of the immune system, so don’t deal with your gums – in this case, deal with stress.
Now you know what the major causes of gum bleeding and sensitivity are, so refrain from the habits mentioned above to have healthier teeth and gums.
