Are bleeding gums a sign of gingivitis?
It’s possible, since gums usually bleed because they are infected with gingivitis, says Jennifer Holtzman, D.D.S., M.P.H., assistant professor at USC’s School of Dentistry. Gingivitis results when plaque is allowed to accumulate on teeth for long periods of time. “In a normal immune response to the irritants, the gum tissue becomes swollen and thin, bleeding easily,” says Holtzman. However, certain medications and conditions (such as stress, pregnancy and diabetes) can increase the risk of gums bleeding too. The best thing to do, she says, is to remove any possible irritants with a good professional cleaning followed by consistent and thorough oral health skills at home at least once a day—and preferably more. “Go over with your dentist the techniques you’re using to clean your teeth to make sure you’re brushing and flossing correctly, and whether you should include a mouth rinse in your oral hygiene routine,” advises Holtzman. The bleeding should go away within a few weeks. If it does
