The Connection Between Bleeding Gums and Plaque

One of the most common indicators of dental troubles is bleeding gums. Patients often first notice bleeding while brushing and flossing their teeth. Some people may not realize the significance of this symptom, however. It is important for dental patients who notice any bleeding in the gums following brushing or flossing of the teeth to go to the dentist. While gums may bleed on occasion due to brushing too hard, bleeding most often happens because of a buildup of plaque that occurs on the teeth and gumline.

How bleeding gums and plaque are connected

Bleeding gums are often a direct result of plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film full of bacteria that forms on teeth after eating and drinking. It typically starts building up on the teeth within 12 hours after brushing but can begin forming in as little as four hours. Foods and beverages high in sugars or carbs encourage plaque.

It is important to thoroughly brush the teeth twice a day to help prevent the buildup of plaque. When possible, rinse the mouth out after consuming sweet foods and drinks, and floss at least once daily. If left untreated, plaque can lead to many dental health issues.

How plaque can lead to gum disease

Plaque directly leads to the development of bleeding gums. When plaque is on the gumline for extended periods of time, it can result in irritation and cause redness, swelling, and bleeding. Plaque may also lead to the development of tartar, which is a hard deposit that adheres onto teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. If tartar is not removed, it can lead to the development of gum disease and cause gums to bleed.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a form of early gum disease that occurs from plaque lingering on the gum lines for a long period of time. It causes sore gums and swelling, as well as bleeding. Plaque that is adhered to the gum line and hardened into tartar can result in increased bleeding.

Periodontitis

Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gum disease. If gingivitis is left untreated, it will result in the development of periodontitis. This severe form of gum disease can cause further bleeding gums and infects the jawbone. It is imperative to treat periodontitis as soon as possible as the condition can eventually result in the loss of teeth and jawbone, as well as infections affecting the rest of the body.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Long Beach, CA

Conclusion

Poor dental hygiene habits can lead to the buildup of plaque on the teeth that may in turn develop into gum disease. Bleeding gums are often an early sign of this condition. It is important for patients to receive treatment from a dentist as soon as possible to mitigate the progression of the disease and protect the teeth and gums. Practicing proper oral hygiene and visiting a dentist twice a year for routine checkups can help preserve a patient's smile for years to come.

Request an appointment or call Paramount Dental Care & Specialty at 562-450-1261 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.

Related Posts

The Link Between Bleeding Gums, Plaque, Bacteria, And Gingivitis

Individuals who experience bleeding gums while brushing should not necessarily be overly alarmed, because it could be caused by temporary irritation or using a brush with too-hard bristles. However, when the gums frequently bleed during brushing, it may be a sign of early gum disease, known as gingivitis. Understanding the link between this bleeding and…

Gingivitis: How Bleeding Gums Are Reversible

Patients who notice their gums bleeding upon brushing, flossing, or even eating may initially panic. However, while bleeding gums often signify the beginnings of gingivitis, this inflammation and the resulting gum disease can be reversed with timely and targeted treatments if it is caught soon enough. It is important to investigate the cause of long-term…

Bleeding Gums And Tooth Infection

Seeing blood in the sink when brushing can be worrying. Bleeding gums is a symptom with varying causes, one of the most common of which is a tooth infection. It is not the only cause, however, and it is important to know the details.A tooth infection occurs when bacteria reaches the root of the tooth…

Paramount Dental Care & Specialty

Share
Published by
Paramount Dental Care & Specialty

Recent Posts

The Link Between Bleeding Gums, Plaque, Bacteria, and Gingivitis

Individuals who experience bleeding gums while brushing should not necessarily be overly alarmed, because it…

5 days ago

A Children’s Dentist Explains Why It’s Important to Take Care of Baby Teeth

Parents should help children brush their baby teeth until they are old enough to do…

1 week ago

Gingivitis: How Bleeding Gums Are Reversible

Patients who notice their gums bleeding upon brushing, flossing, or even eating may initially panic.…

1 week ago

Bleeding Gums and Tooth Infection

Seeing blood in the sink when brushing can be worrying. Bleeding gums is a symptom…

2 weeks ago

Leading Causes of Bleeding Gums

Though not necessarily abnormal, bleeding gums should prompt further investigation. Bleeding from the gums can…

2 weeks ago

Risk Factors for Bleeding Gums and Gum Disease

Along with swelling and pain, consistently bleeding gums can be a symptom of gum disease.…

3 weeks ago