Swollen, bleeding gums can be uncomfortable and unattractive.
These are also hallmark signs of periodontal disease, which can severely impact your oral health. Your general health could suffer too.
What symptoms should I look out for?
Signs Aren’t Always So Apparent
Bleeding During Flossing
Many people will only experience bleeding gums when they floss or brush their teeth. Pay special attention during your hygiene routine.
Change in Texture
Healthy gum tissue is firm, smooth, and lies flat next to the teeth. Swollen tissue may have a rolled margin along the teeth or appear visibly inflamed.
Change in Color
Gum tissue should be evenly pigmented and light pink or coral. Dark pink, red, purple or even blue gums could indicate something is wrong.
Do I just need to brush and floss more?
Oral Hygiene is Part of the Equation, But There Are Other Risk Factors
A buildup of bacterial plaque, the catalyst for gum disease, is most often the cause of swollen and bleeding gums. Oral infections, allergic reactions, and mouth ulcers, or canker sores, can increase your risk of swelling. Certain types of vitamin deficiencies and hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, can also impact your gum health.
What else causes these symptoms?
Bacteria
The bacteria that cause gum disease release toxic substances. This causes the soft tissue to become infected and increasingly inflamed.
Injury to the Soft Tissue
Brushing too aggressively or using a hard-bristled brush can irritate the delicate tissue. Burns from hot food and drinks can also injure the gums.
Pregnancy and Birth Control
Puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation, as well as oral birth control, cause a rise in certain hormones. This leads to increased blood flow to the gums, which can make them swell and bleed more easily.
