Bleeding Of Gums And Bad Breath

Talk of a healthy mouth and most people would think of a decay-free set of teeth. However, the overall oral health is more due to healthy gums and check tissue. The gums or the gingival largely determines the health of the teeth. They not just cover the teeth but also provide anchoring support to the teeth. The gums and the surrounding tissue are together called as Periodontium.

While infection of the gums is called gingivitis and is a minor issue, the periodontal inflammation is more severe and may even cause tooth mobility and eventually loss. Periodontal infection is a chronic condition and is one of the main causes of bad breath or halitosis too.

Pink, swollen gums are one of the first symptoms of poor oral health, gradually leading to spontaneous gum bleeding. Apart from poor oral health, other reasons for bleeding gums include pregnancy, diabetes, mouth ulcers, mouth breathing, chemotherapy, tobacco users, hormonal imbalance, and vigorous brushing. Most can be managed by simply improving oral hygiene practices. If periodontal involvement is identified, it is advisable to see the dentist.

Methods To Treat Bleeding Gums and Breath-
Listed below are some common methods to manage bleeding gums and bad breath.

1. Brushing: Advisable at least twice a day, but preferably after each meal. Use of a soft-bristled toothbrush is equally important, as hard bristles only cause more bleeding. Follow each massage with a simple plain finger gum massage – this improves blood circulation and thereby gum health.
2. Rinsing: Any mouthwash will do, and if you are outside and can’t find anything within reach, use water. It has been the oldest rinse and works wonders. Swish it around the teeth for about 30 seconds and spit it out. If a medicated one is used, avoid eating for 30 minutes after the rinse.
3. Floss: This gives special attention to the surfaces between the teeth which attracts food lodgment and is more prone to decay. Flossing removes plaque from between the teeth and reduces caries and gum problems, thereby reducing the incidence of gum disease and bad breath.