Bleeding gums is a common complaint for many patients.  Many think it is normal, but if it was your eye that bled everyday wouldn’t you be alarmed? Why ignore the mouth?

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums characterised by bleeding (usually when they are brushed).

Plaque bacteria if not properly cleaned off the teeth cause this inflammation and bleeding.

Gingivitis is often treated simply by cleaning those areas of the mouth missed by tooth brushing for example.  Flossing between the teeth usually corrects the problem.

If plaque remains on the teeth it can mix with the saliva and turn into a hard substance called tartar or calculus.  The dentist has to scale calculus off the teeth as it is difficult to remove with a toothbrush.

Build up of Tartar on the back of the Teeth

Overtime, if left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious gum diseases called periodontitis.

Plaque and calculus start to grow under the gum in pockets around the teeth.  More bleeding occurs and the bone that holds the teeth in place underneath the gum is slowly destroyed and teeth become wobbly (some to the point that they fall out).  Smoking also contributes to this problem.

Giving up smoking, visiting your dentist for regular scales and using interdental cleaning aids can help stabilise this problem but usually not reverse it.

Corsodyl mouthwash is especially good to treat gum problems but should be used for no more than 5 consecutive days in a month as it can leave a brown stain on your teeth.

Corsodyl Mouthwash

Corsodyl gel is also available and can be used on interdental brushes between your teeth.

Corsodyl Gel