Gum Health

Has your child ever come to you with bleeding gums? If so, there are a number causes that could be the culprit, but the one to watch out for is gum disease. Below, we discuss some common causes of bleeding gums, and when it’s time for your child to visit the dentist.

New Toothbrush

A new toothbrush with firm bristles can sometimes cause gums bleed. If you just bought your child a new toothbrush, check the bristles to see how firm they are, or look on the package to see what types of bristles it has. You should always buy toothbrushes with soft bristles, which clean as well as firm bristles, and are much easier on gums and teeth. Additionally, make sure your child isn’t brushing their teeth with too much pressure, which can also cause bleeding and damage sensitive gums.

Medications

Certain medications can cause gums to become inflamed and extra sensitive, which can make them more susceptible to bleeding. If your child has just started a new regiment of medications, then they might be the culprit. Make sure they stick to their medication routine, but have them be gentler when they brush so that they don’t irritate their sensitive gums.

New Flossing Routine

If your child has just started flossing, then they will most likely experience some minor bleeding. This is because deep crevices in the gums are incredibly sensitive and are easily agitated when someone begins a new flossing routine. Bleeding gums caused by flossing usually subsides in about a week. Visit our office If your child is experiencing bleeding gums for more than one week after beginning flossing, since this may indicate a more serious problem that requires treatment.

Gum Disease

If your child has gums that bleed easily, or that are red, swollen and tender, then they may have gum disease. Gum disease can be caused by a number of factors, but it is most commonly associated with poor oral hygiene. Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is also caused by excessive plaque buildup. The best to keep gum disease away from your child is a good oral health routine. Make sure that they are brushing twice daily for two minutes at a time and that they floss once per day.

Visit Our Office

If your child has bleeding gums that last more than one week then visit our office so that we can prescribe a proper treatment plan. Gums that bleed for more than a week often indicate some form of gum disease that needs to be treated by a pediatric dentist. Visit our office today to help your child get healthier gums, and a smile that they’re proud to share.

When we think of oral health, our focus tends to be on teeth.  But that’s only half the story.  Gum health is an integral part of dental and oral health and can also play a significant role in the overall health of your body.  Taking care of your own gum health and helping guide your children in good oral habits can provide a lifetime of benefits.  Here are four reasons your gums are so important.

1.They keep your teeth in place!

No matter how great the condition of your teeth they require healthy gums to support them.  Your gums serve as a seal around your teeth, protecting more sensitive tissues underneath.  When bacteria is allowed to sit on gums and teeth, small pockets begin to form over time which provides even more places for plaque to hide.  This continual erosion of gum tissues exposes teeth, increasing the likelihood of cavities and even loose teeth.

2.Having healthy gums may lower heart disease.

Gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular problems like heart disease and stroke.  Studies point to gum health as an overall predictor of heart health.  Experts aren’t sure exactly why this is and the link has long been a matter of debate.  What’s unquestionable, however, is that heart attack and stroke patients tend to also have gum disease.

3. It’s possible that having healthy gums can mean a better memory.

According to a report in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, researchers have noticed a link between performance on memory tests and gum health.  Study participants with gingivitis, marked by swollen, sensitive gums, consistently performed poorly in memory tests when compared to those with healthy gums.  Apparently, remembering to brush and floss can help you remember where you put your car keys!

4. Healthy gums can keep your whole body healthy.

Bacteria in your mouth can find its way into the blood stream easily when gums are inflamed, meaning that your body is more susceptible to infections.  In fact, research has even uncovered links between gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis.  Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, reducing the chance of gingivitis and possibly keeping you healthier overall.