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There’s no denying it: Flossing is one of the most important oral hygiene habits to practice. Unfortunately, many people either don’t floss correctly or don’t floss at all. Flossing is essential to remove harmful bacteria and reduce plaque build-up between teeth.

Find the Right Floss

Most floss types are thin, nylon strands that get pulled between teeth in an up-and-down motion. You can find a standard waxed floss that will do the trick. There’s also unwaxed floss available on the market with polytetrafluorethylene to make it easier for the floss to glide between teeth.

There are plenty of options out there besides the traditional string floss; you could buy charcoal floss or dental tape. While marketing efforts pawn off charcoal floss as the next best oral health tool, it’s best to use it sparingly; too much charcoal can wear down your enamel over time.

Dental tape comes in a large sheet of plastic material with thin fibres running through it. Most people have difficulty using this type of dental product, but it does help remove food debris and plaque. There are also disposable floss picks available that some people find easier to use.

Remember, whenever you see a seal of acceptance from the American Dental Association (ADA), it means the product is generally safe to use.

Use the Right Flossing Technique

Implementing a proper flossing technique can work wonders when trying to remove plaque and food particles.

How To Floss

Don’t worry. Many people struggle with nailing the best flossing technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide to flossing with string floss:

• Remove roughly 18 inches of floss from the container.
• Wrap one end of the floss around your index finger and the other end between the index and thumb of your alternate hand. Ensure there are 5 cm/2 inches of floss for your teeth.
• Glide the floss up and down your teeth.
• Try to avoid driving the floss into your gums
• Curve the floss into a C shape to reach the spaces between your teeth and gums.
• Repeat these steps as you move from tooth to tooth from one side of the mouth to the other. Make sure to use a different part of the floss each time.

Floss Once a Day

You should regularly floss your teeth once a day, along with brushing twice daily for 2 minutes (remember that fluoride toothpaste!). Keeping up with a flossing routine will ensure you stay on top of your oral health and decrease the risk of dental issues like cavities or gingivitis.

Be Consistent

The hardest part about flossing your teeth is being consistent. Remember, it doesn’t take that much time out of your day, and the sooner you get it done, the faster it’s over with. Think about all the money and pain you’ll save on cavity fillings and other dental work.

Be Gentle

Try to avoid flossing between your teeth too hard. Too many rough back-and-forth motions could dig into your gums and damage them. If you’re just now getting into the habit of flossing, you may see some slight gum bleeding, but that’s okay. It’s just a natural part of beginning your new oral hygiene routine. However, if you notice that you constantly have bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, it could mean that you’re applying too much pressure.

Don’t Neglect the Back Teeth

Sometimes you might get caught up flossing the front teeth because you don’t want people to see the bits of broccoli you just had for lunch. Other times, you may just have difficulty reaching the back of your mouth. The point is that you shouldn’t neglect your back teeth when flossing. If you struggle with flossing your back teeth, try using a disposable floss pick.

Tired of Floss? Try a Water Flosser

If you can’t get the handle of regular floss, you could try a water flosser. Water flossers are handheld devices that shoot water between your teeth. A water flosser needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet, and you’ll have to keep the water tank filled, but it’s a fun alternative if you don’t like flossing between your teeth. Keep in mind that water flossing is not as effective as manual flossing and should ideally be adjunctive to the latter.

While flossing and brushing your teeth is the key to fantastic oral health, you should still visit your dentist in Winnipeg for routine check-ups and teeth cleaning. Our dental office is always here when you need our services. Contact us to book your next appointment, and we’ll assure you walk away with a smile.

It may come as no surprise, but regularly brushing your teeth twice a day removes plaque and can prevent future oral health problems. Despite this obvious knowledge, many people don’t practice consistent teeth brushing. With so many toothbrushes available, knowing which option is the best for you can be challenging. 

Should you use an electric or manual toothbrush? 

Both kinds of toothbrushes have perks. Below, we’ll review the pros and cons of electric and manual toothbrushes to determine which one might be your best option:

Electric Toothbrush 

An electric toothbrush (or powered toothbrush) is a battery-operated device that vibrates and rotates while cleaning your teeth. WebMD states electric toothbrushes can cover a larger area faster than a manual toothbrush. While manual toothbrushes can get the job done, it can take longer to clean each tooth, which may deter users from brushing for the recommended time. 

There are three types of electric toothbrushes: 

• Oscillating Rotary Toothbrushes: These brushes come with a small, circular, oscillating head that rotates back and forth while cleaning each tooth. Some oscillating models feature vibrating and pulsing to help remove plaque and food debris between teeth.
• Sonic Toothbrushes: A sonic toothbrush has a vibrating head that moves bristles side-to-side at high speed. The vibrations of a sonic toothbrush are fast enough to produce a low hum and offer up to 50,000 movements per minute.  
• Ultrasonic Toothbrushes: Ultrasonic brushes use a high-frequency vibration called “ultrasound” to remove plaque and food buildup. They can provide over 1.2 billion movements per minute. 

Electric Toothbrush Benefits 

The vibrating and oscillating head on an electric toothbrush works exceptionally well at covering all areas of your teeth and gums, and the benefits don’t stop there:

Removing Plaque

Electric toothbrushes are more effective for removing plaque and bacteria from your mouth. Regularly brushing your teeth with an electric brush can help improve your oral health, retain your teeth for longer, and remove stains, making them look whiter and cleaner. According to Colgate, an 11-year study showed that using an electric toothbrush can result in 22% less pocket depth and gum recession and 18% less tooth decay. 

Built-In Timers

Many electric toothbrushes come with built-in timers. Why? To alert you after you’ve brushed for the recommended 2-minute time. These alerts ensure you don’t brush for too long but long enough to achieve better oral hygiene and health. 

Better for Limited Mobility

Compared to a regular manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you. This addition is a benefit for people with limited mobility issues, like carpal tunnel, arthritis, and more. 

Beneficial for Orthodontic Appliances 

People with orthodontic appliances, such as braces, may find that electric toothbrushes make brushing much easier. An electric toothbrush can help those with braces remove plaque, food debris, and stains while undergoing orthodontic therapy. 

Less Waste

According to OralB, you should typically replace your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3 to 4 months. That’s a lot of waste when considering how many brushes you go through in a year. But with an electric toothbrush, the waste is minimized as you don’t need to throw out a full brush. 

However, when using a single-use electric toothbrush, you will have to replace it once the bristles wear out. 

Cost-Effective 

While an electric toothbrush may seem like an unnecessary expense, it’ll save you some money in the long run. Not only does it come with long battery life, but it also requires less maintenance and yields positive brushing results. Instead of discarding and replacing a manual brush, you only have to worry about replacing the electric toothbrush head. 

Brushing Potential 

Numerous electric toothbrushes come with different settings, which make for effective brushing techniques. If you have sensitive teeth, you can use a gentler mode or take advantage of the pulsing and vibrating features to get into those hard-to-reach areas.

Fun for Kids

Every parent knows how hard it is to keep their kids on a regular oral hygiene routine. No child is interested in brushing their teeth with a manual toothbrush, but a powered toothbrush is a whole other level of fun. Electric brushes can help kids become more engaged while brushing and keep them interested in practicing healthy habits. 

Electric Toothbrush Cons

While an electric toothbrush has several benefits, it has some drawbacks: 

High Cost

Since electric toothbrushes require batteries, they’ll be generally more expensive than traditional, manual brushes. They also require a head replacement, which can be pricey, depending on the model. 

Risk of Damage

A battery-powered electric toothbrush requires charging, and you must be careful not to overcharge the brush as it can put the device at risk of damaging the battery. 

Manual Toothbrush 

A manual toothbrush is a hand-held brush that’s typically made out of hard plastic. This type of toothbrush has soft bristles for cleaning gums and areas between the teeth. A person must manually manipulate the brush to gently massage the gums and brush gums to remove plaque and food debris. 

Manual Toothbrush Benefits 

Manual toothbrushes have been around for decades, which means they’re a classic for a reason. While manual brushes may not have as many benefits as their electric-powered counterparts, they still provide an array of advantages:

Affordability

Manual brushes are considerably less expensive than electric toothbrushes. These toothbrushes are also available at many stores with various features and prices. 

Easy to Maintain

Just rinse it, and it’s ready for the next time you need it—no charging is necessary.

Speed Control

Most electric toothbrushes come with a consistent speed depending on the model. Manual toothbrushes rely on you to control the speed. You can decide what pace and how much pressure to apply when brushing specific areas in your mouth, making for greater control. 

Easier to Travel With 

A manual toothbrush can easily fit in a suitcase or travel bag, which makes it more convenient to pack. They’re lightweight and easy to travel with, and you don’t have to worry about damaging them as you would with an electric toothbrush. 

Manual Toothbrush Cons 

Manual brushes can provide many benefits, but there will always be significant drawbacks when compared to going electric:

Rough Brushing

A study found that many people who use manual toothbrushes tend to brush their teeth harder than with electric brushes. Applying too much pressure can cause gum abrasion and other oral health issues. 

No Timer

Without a 2-minute timer, most manual toothbrush users brush for less than 45 seconds. This is one advantage powered toothbrushes have over manual, as it indicates how long users should brush. 

Harder to Use

For people with arthritis, disabilities, or issues with dexterity, manual brushing may cause some discomfort. These brushes aren’t as user-friendly as the electric models. 

Which Toothbrush Is Right for You?

Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective at cleaning your teeth, but if we had to choose which method works best, we would say that electric toothbrushes are the go-to. An electric toothbrush can make brushing a lot easier and serve as a better plaque-removal option. 

Talk to your dentist if you’re unsure which toothbrush is best for you. 

Don’t let the threat of cavities and gum disease get the best of you. Stay on top of brushing your teeth twice daily and make regular appointments with your reliable dental clinic. When you book an appointment with us at Fresh Dental, we ensure you get the best treatment possible, whether for routine cleanings, fillings, and more. Contact us today!

One major lesson we learned as a kid is that frequent snacking on sugary foods and beverages can cause cavities, especially if you aren’t brushing and flossing twice a day. It can be hard to deny those sweet treats, which is why cavities are among some of the most common oral health problems. You’ll likely get at least one cavity during your life if you don’t take proper care of your oral hygiene. 

If you don’t treat a cavity, it can get larger and start to corrode the deeper layers of your teeth, often becoming painful and irritating as the cavity forms. 

But how do cavities form, and how can you differentiate the signs of a cavity from a less serious problem? 

What Is a Cavity?

Over time, food and bacteria can build up on your teeth and form plaque. If you aren’t committing to a regular brushing routine, the plaque can produce acids that erode the outer enamel on the surface of your teeth. If you allow the plaque to continue building up, it can eat away at the enamel and create cavities. 

A cavity is a hole in a tooth that develops from tooth decay. If left untreated, it can grow and destroy your tooth. Cavities can also create further dental complications, such as a tooth abscess and/or gum infection. An infection that makes its way into your bloodstream can result in life-threatening diseases or conditions.

There are areas of the mouth that may be more susceptible to plaque development, such as:

• Chewing surfaces of the molars 
• Areas between your teeth
• The bottom of your teeth near the gums

If you’re continuously eating sticky foods, it may increase your risk of developing one or more cavities. 

Our team at Fresh Dental has narrowed down the common foods that cause cavities:

• Hard candy
• Potato chips
• Ice cream
• Soda beverages 
• Fruit juice 
• Coffee or tea with sugar
• Sugary foods like candy, gummies, cookies, cake, etc.

While cavities are most common among children, adults are still at risk. Some adults may experience receding gums that expose the roots of their teeth to plaque. If cavities develop at the root and continue to grow without treatment, it may result in tooth loss.

7 Signs You Have a Cavity

Tooth Sensitive to Sweets

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, sensitivity to hot, cold, or even sweet foods is a symptom of early tooth decay and cavities. You may notice a lingering sensitivity when eating sweet foods or drinking sugary beverages. 

A lingering discomfort is almost always a telltale sign there’s damage to your enamel and marks the beginning of a developing cavity in your tooth.

Tooth Sensitive to Hot & Cold

As we mentioned above, sensitivity to hot and cold is a common indicator that you have a cavity. As tooth enamel begins to wear down, it can affect the hard tissue layer beneath the enamel called dentin. Dentin contains a collection of microscopic hollow tubes. 

If there isn’t enough tooth enamel to protect the dentin, hot and cold foods can irritate the nerve inside the tooth. Sticky or acidic foods can also affect the exposed dentin, creating the sensitivity you may experience. 

Blood When Brushing 

If a cavity forms between two teeth, you may notice blood while brushing your teeth. We know that’s the last thing you want to see when you spit out your toothpaste, so why does it happen? Gum tissue can grow into the space created by a recent cavity. Any time you brush over that space, you can cause the gum tissue to start bleeding. 

Pain When Chewing 

You may notice more pain while chewing as a cavity progresses and exposes the pulp of a tooth. Some people will start chewing on the side of their mouth that doesn’t have tooth pain. Constant chewing on the opposite side may also cause soreness when eating food. Difficulty chewing due to a tooth cavity is one of the last things you want to experience. 

Teeth Starting To Chip & Crack

As your tooth decays, the outer enamel corrodes until the dentin layers of the inner tooth are exposed. As those layers are unprotected, the dead or dying pulp produces a pigment that makes your teeth look darker and increases the risk of chipping and cracking. It’s pivotal to see your dentist as soon as you notice your cavity to ensure you don’t damage your teeth. Fixing a chipped or cracked tooth is an expensive procedure that you can avoid. 

Shifting of Teeth or New Gaps 

Cavities in the back section of your teeth can worsen over time and cause your teeth to shift. In some more extreme scenarios, you may even notice that a gap has formed in your front teeth. The sudden development of shifting teeth or gaps means that a cavity is probably to blame. 

White Spots on Teeth

The earliest warning sign of a forming cavity is the sudden appearance of white spots on the surface of your teeth. The white spots are caused by a lack of minerals on the surface of your teeth. If you notice these dots, you should seek treatment right away before it’s too late. Yes, a tad dramatic, but it’s true. A dentist can help reverse the damage to your teeth, especially when it’s so early in the cavity stage. 

What Can You Do To Prevent a Cavity?

Practising good oral hygiene is the first step to preventing tooth decay and cavities. If you’re not keeping up with brushing and flossing, your cavities could result in requiring monumental fixes. For example, if you allow a cavity to worsen and affect the tissue within the tooth, you may need a root canal treatment. A root canal is an invasive procedure that may require more than one dental office visit and can be pricey to fix.

So, how do you prevent a cavity and avoid intense dental procedures?

• Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking. Waiting 30 minutes after eating to brush is generally advised especially if the food that was consumed is acidic.  You generally want to brush your teeth twice a day. Use dental floss to remove food particles between your teeth once daily. 
• Visit your dentist regularly. Routine teeth cleanings and oral exams can help reduce your risk of cavities and prevent issues early on. 
• Consider a fluoride treatment. Some dentists may recommend occasional fluoride treatments if they notice you aren’t getting enough through fluoride drinking water. 
• Drink more water. Many public water supplies have fluoride, which can help reduce tooth decay. 
• Avoid frequent snacking. Eating sugary foods and drinking beverages other than water can create acids that destroy your enamel. The more you snack, the more your teeth are under frequent attack. 
• Eat healthy foods. You can find many healthy foods for your teeth and increase your saliva flow, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Consider dental sealants. A sealant is a thin coating painted on teeth to protect them against cavities. It seals off grooves that tend to collect food and protects against plaque build-up.
• Antibacterial treatments. If you’re vulnerable to tooth decay because of a medical condition, your dentist might recommend an antibacterial mouth rinse and other treatments to help reduce the bacteria in your mouth. 

When To See a Dentist 

It’s paramount to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice one or more cavity signs. A lingering toothache, sensitivity, bad breath, and tooth stains are some of the most common identifiers. Take action before the cavity grows.

You should see your dentist every six months and get routine X-rays to determine if there are any cavities or other dental problems. This way, your dentist can stop any issues before they worsen. 

FAQs

How Common Are Cavities?

According to Canada Health, 96% of adults have a history of cavities. Cavities are also very common in children. 57% of 6-11-year-olds and 59% of 12-19-year-olds have had one or more cavities.  

Who Might Get a Cavity?

Cavities can develop at any age. However, those who don’t brush properly and often consume sugary foods or drinks are more prone to developing one or more cavities. Children are more likely to get them, but adults can have cavities that form around the fillings that were used to treat cavities from adolescence. Receding gums are also more prominent in adults, which can expose the lower parts of the teeth to plaque build-up.  

What Are the Types of Cavities? 

Tooth decay affects all layers of your teeth. It can take three years for a cavity to form, especially if your enamel is strong. As the decay progresses, it spreads to your dentine and pulp.

The common types of cavities include: 

• Smooth surface: This is a slow-forming cavity that dissolves your tooth enamel. You can prevent (and even reverse) a smooth surface cavity with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. 
• Pit and fissure decay: These cavities form on the top part of the tooth’s chewing surface and can also affect the front side of the back teeth. Pit and fissure decay often starts during the teenage years and progresses rapidly. 
• Root decay: Adults with receding gums are more susceptible to root decay. As gum recession exposes the tooth’s root, it becomes vulnerable to plaque and acid. This type of cavity is incredibly difficult to prevent and treat. 

What Causes Cavities?

Newsflash: If you have teeth, you’re at risk for cavities. However, properly caring for your teeth and gums can help decrease your chances. 

There are specific causes that can increase the development of a cavity, such as:

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Poor dental hygiene 
• A lack of fluoride
• Eating disorders
• Acid reflux disease
• Dry mouth

Don’t let a cavity ruin your smile. Our valued team at Fresh Dental can provide numerous services, such as dental implants, coloured fillings, crowns, teeth whitening, cleanings, and more! Make an appointment with us today. 

Are you in the process of considering dentures as a replacement for missing teeth? Dentures improve and assist your facial profile, making chewing, eating, and speaking easier. 

Different types of dentures serve different purposes. Some dentures replace a few missing teeth, while others might replace all of your natural teeth. Scheduling a consultation with your dentist will provide you with more information about dentures. But before your consultation, it’s beneficial to understand more about the different types of dentures to determine what option might work best for you.

Denture Options 

Complete Dentures 

Complete dentures, also known as full dentures, refer to the total replacement of the upper and lower sets of teeth. These dentures sit on the gums, unlike other dental bridges that are fixed or anchored to existing teeth.

Full dentures are made of acrylic resin and are fully removable from the mouth. They fit better when all your teeth have been removed and can be used about 8 to 12 weeks after removal.  

Partial Dentures 

Patients with some remaining teeth can benefit from a removable partial denture. Partial dentures appear as a pink-coloured base attached to a piece of metal that holds the denture in the mouth. Most partial dentures are also made from acrylic material and can help prevent other teeth from shifting over. 

Immediate Dentures 

You may be a good candidate for immediate dentures if you need a tooth replacement. Most immediate dentures can be used directly after the natural teeth have been removed. The point of an immediate denture is to help during the healing process. These Winnipeg dentures are easy to refit and adjust as the gums and jaw heal. 

Implant-Supported Dentures 

Dental implants are used in implant-supported dentures to ensure they’re supported securely. An implant-supported denture provides a solid foundation for your teeth as you chew and speak, keeping the denture in place. Typically, implant-supported dentures look natural and can last up to 10 or 20 years if properly cared for. 

Implant-retained Dentures 

Implant-retained Dentures are dentures that are kept in by implants but the support for the dentures is still mostly by the gums.  These are a good option for a lower complete denture that would otherwise be very loose without the implants.

So, Which Dentures Are Better?

Ultimately, the best dentures for you will heavily depend on your needs. Your dentist will be able to provide the options for you, but there are a few things to consider:

• Budget: As you’ve probably noticed throughout this list, some denture alternatives are pricey. Discussing your options with a professional dentist will help determine what you can afford.
• Requirements: Not every denture option is available to everyone. The dentures you get will depend on what works best for your mouth. In some cases, surrounding teeth may have to undergo removal to make room for denture placement. 
• Comfort: Typically, you can choose what type of denture you prefer, such as permanent or removable dentures. It’s pivotal to choose a denture that you’re comfortable with, as it will become part of your day-to-day life.  

Now that you know more about denture options, you can step forward toward bettering your dental care. Make an appointment with Fresh Dental today and learn more about our denture implants. Our team of experienced dentists strives to ensure each patient that enters the office leaves feeling more confident about their smile.

Undergoing oral surgery and receiving a tooth extraction can be an unpleasant experience. An even more unpleasant feeling is continuing your day-to-day with a missing tooth. Not only can it be uncomfortable, but it can also be inconvenient, especially when trying to eat or speak. It’s perfectly understandable why you’d want to fill that gap in your teeth as soon as possible. Your dentist will most likely recommend a dental implant, but when one receives an implant after extraction will vary from patient to patient. 

What Is Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal screws and is for people who need replacements for damaged or missing teeth. A small hole called an osteotomy is made in the bone and the titanium implant is carefully screwed into this hole at a predefined torque value.  Usually a healing cap is screwed into the implant to give the Dentist access to the implant after healing has occurred.  Healing usually takes 3-4 months.  During the time the bone grows into all the microscopic gaps on the surface of the implant which stabilizes it.  After healing a crown can be made and this crown would replace the healing cap.

A dental implant may be the right option for patients who:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have healthy tissues
• Have a jawbone that can support the implants
• Are unable to wear dentures
• Don’t have health conditions that can compromise the healing process
• Don’t smoke 

Immediate Implant Placement

Sometimes it’s possible to receive an immediate placement during the same appointment as the extraction. An immediate implant placement option may work for you if you’re free of gum disease and have a healthy jawbone that can support the implant. 

While immediate placement after extraction can help dentists reduce the number of surgical procedures, it also has drawbacks. For example, an immediate implant is a more complex treatment and may lead to a higher implant failure rate. 

Early Implant Placement 

Early implant placement, also known as immediate-delayed implant placement, often occurs 2-3 months after extraction. Why the long wait? Well, it’s to ensure that your gums are healed and give your body time to fight any potential infections. Because this procedure happens soon after a tooth extraction, it allows you to avoid the risk of receiving a bone graft. 

Delayed Implant Placement

Delayed implants happen more than 3 months after extraction. This implant option is necessary if gum disease or another condition has impacted the health of your oral tissues.  This approach is also usually the most predictable.  If you’re experiencing an oral problem after extraction, you may require a bone graft or another procedure before your tooth replacement surgery. 

How To Avoid Unnecessary Delays 

You may not have a choice if you want to speed up the time frame of your procedure. However, you can follow some specific steps to avoid unnecessary delays before receiving dental implants in Winnipeg. 

• Talk to your dentist: Discuss the possibility of a dental implant with your dentist. If it’s a viable treatment option, let your dentist know you’re interested. This way, they can start their preparation for the procedure. 
• Take care of your oral health: Practise good oral hygiene habits, especially if you’ve just had a tooth extraction. Brushing and flossing will reduce your chance of gum disease, which would delay your implant procedure. If you have diabetes or another chronic condition, try to keep it under control, as it can also affect your tooth replacement. 
• Avoid smoking: Smoking cigarettes can increase the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues that may impact your dental implant surgery. 

It can be hard to determine how long it will take to replace your tooth loss. It’s integral to stay patient and continue taking care of your oral health. 

Are Implants Worth the Wait?

Knowing that you may have to wait an extended period before receiving your dental implant can make you question whether the wait is worth it. Trust us, we understand that going that long without one or more teeth can be a lot to ask, but there are several reasons why waiting for your implant is worth it. 

• Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are designed to last a lifetime. 
• 95% of patients that undergo implants will have them successfully bond with their jawbone. 
• Implants are meant to mimic the tooth root, which stimulates your jaw and jawbone growth. 
• An implant can provide the foundation of a natural-looking crown. 
• Receiving implants reduces the risk of bone resorption, which occurs when you’re missing a tooth. 

Want to learn more about receiving a tooth implant? Contact your Winnipeg dentist today. Our clinic provides several dental services, including implants. We can assess your oral health and go over your tooth replacement options to ensure you maintain your beautiful, healthy smile. 

Are you sick of hiding your mouth while everyone else shows off their pearly white smiles? While taking care of your teeth is an important factor in oral health, your gums require just as much attention. 

Neglecting your gums during your oral hygiene routine can breed serious consequences and explain the cause of bleeding gums. If you’re noticing that your gums are bleeding, it’s integral to take action as soon as possible to ensure your dental health is at its peak. 

Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

Your gums may occasionally bleed while brushing too hard or wearing dentures that don’t fit your mouth correctly. However, if you continuously have bleeding gums, it’s typically a sign of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. 

According to a CDC report, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease, which increases with age. 

If you aren’t taking care of your gums properly, it can turn into a more advanced form of gum disease. In some cases, bleeding gums can also derive from serious health conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. 

Causes of Bleeding Gums

There are various reasons why your gums may be bleeding:

Gingivitis 

When too much plaque builds up on your teeth, it can affect your gum line too. Plaque possesses millions of harmful bacteria that can lead to developing gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can leave your gums swollen and bleeding. 

Gingivitis can be solved by improving your oral hygiene or seeking further treatment. If left untreated, the plaque can turn into tartar and develop into a more serious condition if you aren’t on top of brushing and flossing. 

You may notice symptoms of gingivitis if you’re experiencing the following:

• Gum bleeding
• Soreness around the gums
• Inflamed gums

Periodontitis 

When gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance into periodontitis. Developing periodontal disease can infect your gums and jawbone. According to the American Dental Association, the disease can also damage the tissues that support your teeth and gums. If this condition worsens, it may cause your teeth to fall out. 

Vitamin Deficiencies 

If you have Vitamin C and K deficiencies, you might experience bleeding gums. If you’re lacking in these vitamins, your doctor may recommend you follow a healthy diet containing the nutrients you need to maximize your dental health.

Foods that are rich in vitamin C include the following:

• Broccoli 
• Strawberries
• Kiwi
• Oranges
• Tomatoes
• Potatoes
• Red bell peppers

Foods that are rich in vitamin K may include:

• Spinach 
• Kale
• Lettuce 
• Swiss chard
• Mustard greens
• Soybeans 
• Olive oil
• Canola oil

Other Causes 

Dentures may be a cause for concern when it comes to bleeding gums, especially if they aren’t properly fitted. Your dentist can easily fix this issue when you make an appointment.

However, other causes can make your gums bleed. Pregnant women often experience bleeding gums because of the hormonal changes that are occurring. These hormones can cause the gums to become more susceptible to pregnancy gingivitis.  

If you’re taking blood thinning medications like aspirin, heparin, and/or warfarin, you may tend to bleed more often from the gums. Those with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia or leukemia can also be at risk of bleeding gums. 

How To Prevent Gum Bleeding

There are various ways that you can prevent bleeding gums and improve your dental health in the process. Starting with an effective oral hygiene routine is a good start in preventing the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues. 

Here are some tips to reduce gum bleeding:

• Brush Your Teeth: A simple way to resist the risk of gum disease is to brush your teeth often with a soft-bristle toothbrush. It’s recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time. When you’re done, use an antiseptic mouthwash to remove any lingering bacteria.
• Floss Daily: Maintain your gum health by regularly flossing your teeth every day. Flossing can remove plaque and food particles/debris under the gum line. It’s a useful method that prevents bleeding gums and improves your overall oral hygiene. 
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking tobacco can cause damage to your gums and can also lead to gum disease. 
• Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding unhealthy, sugary foods is a productive way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. 
• See Your Dentist Regularly: It’s paramount to see your dentist for a teeth cleaning and check-up twice a year. A professional cleaning can remove the plaque and tartar buildup, as well as prevent the risk of gum disease. Seeing your dentist often will allow them to identify any warning signs and give you the best treatment plan possible. 

Taking care of your smile should be a priority. If you’re noticing bleeding gums or you think you may be experiencing gum disease, make an appointment with our Winnipeg dental office. Our staff is well-trained, and we can provide numerous treatment options to help you take care of your oral health.