Bloody and swollen gums are a serious sign of infection that must be treated quickly and effectively. If you notice blood in your saliva, sensitivity along your gum line, or pains in the soft tissues of your mouth, it’s wise to consult a health professional immediately. Holistic dentists are best equipped to diagnose and treat the problem, having expertise in both oral hygiene as well as integrated total body health. This is particularly important when it comes to treating bloody or swollen gums, as such symptoms can be a warning sign of larger health problems.
Have you been ignoring the agitation caused by inflammation and infection along your gum line? Read the article below to learn more about these symptoms, what they mean, how they affect the health of the entire body, and how they can be effectively treated to eliminate both infection and pain.
What do bloody gums mean?
Bloody gums are the result of poor oral hygiene. Specifically, failure to remove food debris from the teeth on a daily basis can result in the buildup of plaque. As it accumulates, plaque irritates the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth. In response to the irritation, gums often become inflamed and agitated. As the agitation worsens, gums become even more swollen and eventually begin to bleed. This process leads to infection if significant changes to diet, oral hygiene, and dental care are not made.
It is important to remember this: Bloody gums are not normal, and they are a sign of infection. Unfortunately, this type of infection is common among men and women of all ages. It’s called periodontal disease, or gum disease, and it’s estimated that nearly 80% of the American population has it (i).
What do swollen gums mean?
Swollen gums are the first sign that oral health is beginning to erode, as described in the section above. It’s important to take notice when gums first begin to feel agitated or swollen, as early detection may lead to faster and more effective treatment of gum disease. To aid in early detection, consider the following most common factors that contribute to the development of swollen gums, inflammation, infection, and disease:
- Poor oral hygiene. This leads to plaque buildup, bacteria, and eventually infection.
- Nutritionally deficient diet. American diets are high in sugar and starches, both of which promote plaque accumulation, tooth decay, and gum infections. Aim for about 8 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, plenty of water, and consider taking these vital supplements for oral health.
- Cigarettes are bad for just about every part of your body, including the gums. Smoking throughout the day injects toxins into the gums, triggers inflammation, and reduces the ability of the immune system to ward off infection.
- Anxiety, worry, and tension are just a few types of stress that can significantly hinder your immune system’s ability to fight infections like gum disease. Combat stress by scheduling time each day to take a walk, try breathing exercises, meditate, or enjoy a favorite hobby.
How bloody, swollen gums affect holistic health
Bloody, swollen, and agitated gums affect a lot more than just the oral anatomy. In the past 40 years, a number of studies have demonstrated that oral infections can spread throughout the body and cause larger health issues. Two of the most common examples include cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The Perio-Cardio Connection. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum disease has been linked with heart disease and stroke by a number of compelling studies (ii). Individuals with gum disease show a higher risk of heart disease and stroke later in life. Though more research is needed, health professionals identify the inflammation caused by gum disease as the primary factor for increasing the risk.
Gum Disease and Diabetes. Studies have also shown link between diabetes and gum disease. Studies indicate that individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, most likely because diabetes increases susceptibility to infection (iii).
Osteoporosis, Respiratory Disease, & Cancer. Most recently, studies indicate a possible link between gum disease and osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and cancers of the kidneys, pancreas, and blood (iv).
Treat Swollen and Bloody Gums with Perio Protect®
Early detection is critical when treating swollen, bloody, and infected gums. At Assure A Smile, we are pleased to offer Perio Protect®, a convenient way to restore the health and vitality of the gums in just a few minutes each day. Learn more about Perio Protect here.
If you or a loved one suffers with swollen or bloody gums, contact Assure A Smile online or call our friendly front desk at 305-274-0047. Early treatment not only alleviates symptoms of pain and discomfort, but also reduces the risk of developing other serious health conditions. Readers may also visit the following page to learn more about mercury filling removal in Miami.
Sources
(i) http://www.perio.org
(ii) http://www.perio.org/consumer/heart_disease
(iii) http://www.perio.org/node/165
(iv) http://www.perio.org/consumer/other-systemic-diseases
