Oral health plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Healthy gums and strong teeth can keep your smile looking its best for years to come. Therefore, experiencing bleeding gums can be alarming. However, with the proper dental care, you can restore your oral health. The following guide discusses the causes and risks of bloody gums.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

The primary cause of bleeding gums is a buildup of plaque along the gum line, which can lead to gingivitis. This occurs when your gums become inflamed and irritated, thus increasing sensitivity and the risk of bleeding. When left unaddressed, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which can increase your risk of tooth or bone loss. 

Other things that may lead to bleeding gums include vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency, hormonal changes, improper flossing, brushing too hard, infection, or a variety of bleeding disorders. While bleeding gums are most often related to the thoroughness of dental care, it's still important to see your doctor to better understand your underlying cause. 

Common Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Gum disease is the most common cause of bleeding gums, but it is preventable and treatable when caught early. To stay diligent and reduce your risk of periodontitis, it's important to understand risk factors and how to address them. Genetics and age, two factors out of our control, do play a factor in gingivitis and gum disease, which is why it's important to prioritize dental care as you get older. 

Certain medications may also increase your risk of gum disease, so if you notice any bleeding, it's best to talk to your dentist to determine the underlying cause. Smoking is another big risk for gum disease and other health ailments. The best way to reduce this risk is to quit. Your dentist can provide you with smoking cessation tools and techniques. Finally, stress may increase your risk of gum disease, which can lead to bleeding gums. If you're chronically stressed or anxious, it may be beneficial to talk to a professional about relaxation techniques. 

If you experience any sensitivity or bleeding gums, turn to the professionals at William B. Collier Jr., DMD, in Enterprise, AL. This dentist's office has been helping residents throughout the Wiregrass region improve their dental care since 1967, and their skilled dentist knows how to address the early signs of gum disease. Dr. Collier also specializes in cosmetic dentistry procedures along with preventative and remedial services to address underlying dental health issues using some of the most advanced techniques in the industry. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call (334) 347-5026 to set up an appointment today.