Those Bloody Gums!

While some redness along the gum line after brushing can be common this is not the same as actual bleeding, which can be indicative of periodontal disease. Unfortunately, many Thousand Oaks residents may think that they are engaging in proper oral health practices, when clues coming from the gums are indicating otherwise. This also means that good oral hygiene can include the practice of being attentive, as much as it can include brushing and flossing.

Healthy Or Abnormal?

Healthy gums should appear to be pinkish in color, and while they may darken to a brighter red during brushing and flossing, this is not necessarily a bad thing. This darkening without the actual presence of blood in the spittle is actually a sign that circulation throughout the tissue is operating normally. However, the difference between healthy and on the verge of disease can be subtle.

• Any form of bleeding – although this abnormality is most commonly evidenced during oral hygiene routines, some individuals with advanced gum disease may even see blood in the mouth while eating. Bleeding is indicative that the tissue of the gums is deteriorating, and that the bursting of capillaries means that ligaments in the tissue are also on the decline.
• Sores – ulcerations in the mouth, on the tongue, and along the gums is also a sign that bacterial growth and infestation is an issue. In some cases, this can also be a result of plaque and tartar build-up that is causing small lacerations in the tissue, and this provides an access point for microbes to spread infection.
• Purple or shiny gums – any discoloration to the gums can mean that a deeper disease is developing. The shiny and purple quality of the tissue indicates the presence of inflammation, and can be thought of as similar to discoloration that happens in bruising. Although not all patients experience discomfort, the visual signs should indicate the need for a dental check-up.
• Pain – tenderness and discomfort in the mouth should never be ignored, since nerve receptors in the mouth are highly active, and the presence of pain does indicate a definite problem for oral health. Although gum pain is not always as severe as a compromised tooth root, it can still become highly detrimental to normal function, as it is persistent and consistent.

While Thousand Oaks residents can certainly take these pointers to heart when evaluating the need for professional health interventions for oral wellness, it can also be appropriate to remain proactive as to these concerns. Regular cleanings remove the build-up of plaque and tartar which can compromise the healthy function of the gums, and this also means that the natural balance of oral health can be better maintained in the interim.