What Does It Mean When My Gums Bleed?

You’re not a dentist… But you have at least a little knowledge of teeth. After all, you’ve been brushing your teeth since you were three years old. But on occasion, something happens to your teeth that you just can’t explain. However, you don’t want to be the boy who called wolf. You’d like to know there’s a real problem before you call up your dentist.

To help you determine whether your concern is dentist-worthy, here are some signs to be looking for:

Your Gums Are Bleeding: your dentist is going to tell you there are all kinds of reasons why your gums might be bleeding. You could have something caught underneath them. Maybe you brushed too hard. Perhaps you flossed improperly. But more likely than not, you are suffering from a tooth or gum disease like gingivitis or periodontal disease.

If your gums bleed more than a few weeks (and you’ve been brushing and flossing properly) then it’s time to schedule a dental appointment.

Sensitive Teeth: you bite into a popsicle and get the worst shooting pain going right through your mouth. Sensitive teeth are one of the biggest complaints and reasons people visit the dentist. And it’s a good thing. Sensitive teeth today (even if they feel better tomorrow) may be your mouth’s way of saying you have an infection or that your teeth are decaying.

If your teeth are sensitive for more than a few days, it’s time to see the dentist. Early detection of problems can keep you from cavities, root canals, or other solutions.

Dryness in Your Mouth: saliva is your friend. Its job is to help wash away particles of food and keep your teeth free from bacteria. If you’re not producing enough saliva, you may notice an increase in bad breath.

If chewing sugarless gum or changing medical prescriptions doesn’t solve the problem, go see your dentist.

Cracked Teeth: years of chewing and working hard can damage your teeth. Especially since they can wear down as you get older. That wear can cause cracks in your teeth and cracks can lead to infections and bacteria.

If you notice your teeth are cracked or look different than normal, schedule that appointment. Let your dentist help you repair any damage and help you prevent further problems.

Here’s the truth of the matter…the dentist is never going to say you shouldn’t have come. If you need an appointment in addition to your six-month check-up, then by all means, make that call. You can’t ever grow new teeth. And dentures and implants are never as good as the real thing. So protect those pearly whites and visit the dentist as often as you feel you need to