Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

If you have swollen gums or your gums are bleeding readily, schedule your oral health appointment with Dr. Leigh Kent in Birmingham, AL as soon as possible! Here are some of the common causes of bleeding and inflammation of the gums:

• Pregnancy
• Oral Hygiene
• Medication Side Effects
• Hormonal Fluctuations
• Gum Disease

Bleeding gums are one of the many symptoms of gum disease and are often a sign of an active infection in the mouth.

You May Have Gum Disease

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease such as inflammation in the mouth, bad breath, or bleeding gums, you must seek treatment as soon as possible. Neglecting your oral health can cause tooth loss and other oral complications. Some of the common causes of bleeding gums and soreness include:

Gum Disease
Inflammation of the mouth can trigger bleeding gums and leave your gums feeling sore. Gingivitis can be reversed with early intervention but if it progresses to periodontal disease, you may need to under laser gum surgery to get rid of the infection in the mouth.

Medication Side effects
Certain medications, such as aspirin, high blood pressure medications, blood thinners, birth control pills, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can increase the risk of bleeding gums so it is important to share your medical history and all medications you have taken recently with Dr. Kent during your visit.

Hormonal Shifts
If you are pregnant, you are probably experiencing many hormonal shifts and might find that you have swollen gums, your gums are very tender, or your tissues are prone to bleeding. It is very important for pregnant women to pay attention to their oral health and take steps to prevent gum disease.

While several factors may induce bleeding gum tissues, this condition is most often a result of a gum infection. If you are noticing some of the signs of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent in Birmingham, AL today.