The first sign that you will notice when you have gum infection is bleeding gums. Sometimes, the disease where this is apparent is gingivitis. When this is neglected and not treated the proper way, this may develop into a more severe condition called periodontal disease. This is an infection caused by bacteria present in the tissues of the gums. In the advanced stage, this may result to tooth loss.

The individual is to be blamed for problems such as this. The dilemma will start when the person is not vigilant with oral hygiene practices. Oral hygiene and proper dental care must start from childhood to avoid the occurrence of any gum disease as well as the condition of bleeding gums. Plaque is a layer of bacteria which cause build-up on the teeth over time. This gradually forms on the teeth and is speeded up when sweet drinks and foods are not properly removed from the teeth after brushing. This will encourage the growth of plaque which will develop into bleeding gums.

However, when one practices good oral hygiene, bleeding of gums can be avoided. When the teeth is brushed and flossed regularly especially after meals, this will stop plaque from forming on the teeth and prevent bleeding gums. This condition is also very common for pregnant women. Hormonal changes during pregnancy make the supporting and connective tissue in the gums softer and weaker. This increases the flow of blood which makes bleeding more likely especially in the gum area.

There are some people who are more susceptible to bleeding gums than other people. Factors such as stress, poor diet, and smoking triggers gum bleeding, as well as crooked or rough teeth. Certain drugs that have side effects and uncontrolled diabetes will also cause bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are also caused by hemophilia, scurvy or the deficiency in vitamin C, and leukemia, which are accompanied by other symptoms.

In the later and advanced stages of the disease, the teeth may become loose. At the worst stage, the gums will develop abscesses which cause the teeth to fall out. The best thing to do in the treatment of bleeding gums is to practice good oral hygiene. This is done by cleaning your teeth properly by brushing with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily and especially before going to bed at night. When the act of brushing the teeth makes the gums bleed, you may be brushing too vigorously. Spend two minutes gentle and circular brushing of the teeth to remove the plaque. This is accomplished not only on the surface of the teeth but also in-between them. Use dental tape or floss to remove the hidden particles of food stuck in the crevices of the teeth. Some people use mouthwash to refresh the breath and to dislodge any food particles that are still trapped in the teeth.