Gum Problems: Causes, treatment and home remedies

Frequent bleeding of the gums can be an indicator of what is known as gingivitis, i.e. inflammation of the gums. Periodontitis can develop as a result. In the worst case, this inflammation of the tooth apparatus can even lead to tooth loss. However, early forms can be treated well in most cases. However, the seemingly harmless bleeding gums should not be ignored under any circumstances.

What Causes Gum problems?

Numerous factors can contribute to the development of bleeding gums. In addition to genetic predisposition and stress, smoking is another very common reason. Smokers have been shown to have more tartar and plaque and therefore an increased.

In most cases, however, the trigger is bacterial plaque due to a lack of harmful bacteria nesting in the mouth, between the teeth and on the surface of the tongue. There they multiply very quickly because they do not need oxygen to survive. Sugar and starch or carbohydrates in food accelerate and promote this increase.

A permanently dry mouth, for example from taking certain medications, is another possible culprit. Saliva acts like a natural mouth cleanser and is therefore an important protective function of the body in the fight against harmful bacteria. Another reason can be using dental floss for the first time. However, if you floss regularly, bleeding gums are more likely to be a sign of gingivitis and should be treated.

How can Gum problems be treated?

In the case of bacterial bleeding of the gums, you can and must first and foremost take action yourself.

The focus here is the optimal and regular care of the oral cavity. The basis, as always, is thorough brushing. The toothbrush should be soft so as not to further irritate the gums. Together with an antibacterial toothpaste, you can use it to remove food particles and plaque. However, since the toothbrush only reaches plaque on about 70 percent of the tooth surface, dental floss is also indispensable. If you have sensitive gums, make sure you are particularly thorough, but still gentle. An antibacterial mouthwash and the daily use of a special tongue cleaner round off optimal oral hygiene.

Proper brushing technique is also important. The classic is the KAI method, which was developed for children. It starts at the chewing surfaces, goes to the outer surfaces and ends at the inner surfaces. The Stillman technique is well suited for receding gums or after dental operations. This involves wiping the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle starting from the gums with an outward rotation downwards, which is why it is also called the wiping technique. The so-called bass technique is suitable for both healthy and diseased gums. With the method, also known as the shaking technique, circular or shaking movements are carried out on the individual teeth. It is the most common grooming method for adults.

Under no circumstances should you leave out pain-sensitive regions in the care routine. Because only comprehensive hygiene prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying.

If you smoke and suffer from bleeding gums, you should stop now at the latest, and you can also do something nutritionally by avoiding foods that are particularly high in sugar or carbohydrates.

If bleeding gums do not stop significantly even after improving oral hygiene and avoiding nicotine and certain foods, contact your dentist. During the check-up, the doctor can identify periodontal diseases and initiate the appropriate treatment.