The cause of bleeding gums is usually gingivitis but the real question is, " What caused the gingivitis? ". The word gingivitis comes from two parts, gingiv- and -itis. The first is from gingiva meaning your gums and the second means inflammation. So gingivitis means inflammation of the gingiva. With inflammation, the periodontal tissues swell and break down allowing blood to get out and bacteria to get in.

          The most common cause of bleeding gums is poor oral hygiene with food being trapped around and underneath the gums. Bacteria eat the food and grow. Your mouth becomes like a bacteria "hotel and resort". Regular dental hygiene visits for a cleaning and polishing are really important in patients who tend to bleed. In some cases, scaling and root planing is necessary.

          In some cases, the cause of bleeding gums is the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy. It is so common that it's called pregnancy gingivitis and this may be the first sign that a woman is pregnant. Pregnant women should have three cleanings during their pregnancy especially since periodontal disease has been found to be associated with low birth weight babies.

          Diabetes may be the cause of bleeding gums. Diabetics have changes in their blood vessels which can cause a decreased about of nourishing blood getting to the teeth and gums. They tend to have dental problems with a high degree of gum disease that tends to get worse over time. It pays to monitor and take care of your blood sugar if you are diabetic. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If your interested in dental care and would like to visit Dr. Padolsky, call 404-874-7428.