Do you also have bleeding gums? (Bleeding Gums) Let's talk about this!

Do you also get a little worried when you see a little blood when you spit into the sink while brushing your teeth? Or do you sometimes just have bleeding gums for no reason? In fact, many people in our country do not consider this to be such a big deal. They think, "It's normal" and ignore it. However, bleeding gums can sometimes be an important signal that gives us about another big problem inside our body. So today we will be aware of this, that is, 'Bleeding Gums'.

Why do our gums bleed? What are the causes?

There is not just one reason for bleeding gums, there can be many reasons. This condition can mainly be caused by oral health problems, but it can also be caused by other medical conditions in the body. Let's break these reasons down clearly.

What are some ways to control this condition at home?

There are a few simple things you can do at home to help reduce bleeding gums. But remember, if you continue to bleed for more than two weeks despite these steps, you should definitely see a doctor.

• Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day: Brush your teeth for at least two minutes with a toothpaste containing fluoride, in the morning and before going to bed at night.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brushes with hard bristles can damage your gums, so always choose a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss daily: Flossing is the best way to remove food particles stuck between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and rinse your mouth with that water two or three times a day to control gum swelling and infections.
• Avoid smoking completely: If you smoke, quitting is a great help to your oral health as well as your overall health.
• Eat a balanced diet: Eat foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, lemons, guava) and vitamin K (green vegetables such as spinach and kale).

What happens if we ignore this?

This is the most important thing we all need to understand. If you ignore bleeding gums as a minor issue, the condition could become worse if it is caused by gum disease.

Imagine if your bleeding gums are caused by another medical condition, like diabetes? If you ignore this symptom, the underlying disease will get worse. So never ignore it.

When should we definitely see a doctor?

Usually, if you change your brushing habits, such as brushing your teeth a little harder, you may experience some bleeding at times. But it will stop within a day or two. However, if you have any of the following symptoms, see a dentist or your family doctor immediately .

• If your gums constantly bleed for no reason.
• If the bleeding does not stop for more than two weeks after you try home care.
• If the gums are very red, swollen, and painful.
• If there is a bad smell coming from the mouth.
• If you feel like your teeth are moving.
• If you have other symptoms such as fatigue and frequent fever along with bleeding gums.
• Remember this especially: If you experience severe bleeding that cannot be stopped, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.

Your doctor will examine you as needed to determine if the cause is gum disease or another health problem. If necessary, they will refer you for blood tests and provide the correct treatment for the cause.