GUM BLEEDING

THE PROBLEM

Gum bleeding is not a disease, but it is a symptom of a possible pathology. If gums bleed spontaneously or more frequently when brushing or chewing solid food it means that inflammation is taking place. There is a mistaken tendency to minimize this problem by attributing it to particularly delicate gums, but in a healthy condition (and with proper brushing), even the thinnest gums do not bleed.

CAUSES

• Gingivitis:
  The inflammation that causes gum bleeding almost always has as its root cause gingivitis, superficial inflammation of the gum surrounding the tooth. It is a chronic condition, usually painless, but occasionally in an acute form with pain and swelling. Gingivitis is caused by bacterial plaque building up between the tooth and the gum, in the gingival sulcus. The most suitable therapy is the removal of plaque for complete and fast healing of the gums. It is preventable with proper oral hygiene, avoiding the accumulation of plaque with the help of mouthwashes containing specific antiseptics such as chlorhexidine. Furthermore, it is appropriate to schedule a professional hygiene session.
•  Periodontitis:
  Another cause of gum bleeding is periodontitis. This is a deep inflammatory form caused by the evolution of untreated gingivitis. In this case, gum tissue inflammation also affects periodontal ligaments and the bone supporting teeth, compromising their stability. Periodontitis is more challenging to treat, and if caught too late, bone and gum recovery are impossible without sophisticated regenerative surgery. Periodontitis is also often asymptomatic, and therefore in case of frequent bleeding, you should schedule a check-up with your dentist.
•  Other:
  in much lower percentages, gum bleeding can be a clinical sign of more serious pathologies and therefore, in the case of prolonged phenomena, it is a good idea to have a specialist diagnosis through your doctor.