by Brad Vandenheuvel

Created on: April 30, 2010

Unhealthy gums may often look swollen or even start to bleed. This bleeding usually comes from a preventable condition called gingivitis which may cause a recession of the gum line if left untreated. This recession means that the gums will pull away from the teeth, leaving more of the tooth exposed and vulnerable above the surface of the gums. In less serious cases bleeding gums may simply be the result of an improper brushing technique, in which case a cure merely involves changing this unhealthy habit. It should also be noted that specific acidic foods or items such as chewing tobacco can cause damage to the gum tissue and should be avoided by anyone experiencing bleeding or swollen gums. The following advice will help those experiencing bleeding or unhealthy gums to improve their condition and create a healthier looking mouth overall.

Brushing Technique

Many people make the mistake of applying a lot of pressure while brushing their teeth. While this may be helpful in removing stains, it is definitely very unhealthy for the gums. For healthy gums you should be sure to purchase a soft bristled brush and aim to brush very lightly. Even though brushing lightly may be less effective at removing plaque or bacteria from the teeth, this issue can be addressed by simply brushing for a longer period of time. Make sure that when you brush you move the toothbrush in a smooth circular motion, and try to avoid brushing in a straight up-down motion as this often causes the brush to scrape against the gums.

Toothpaste

The fact of the matter is that not all toothpastes are created equal. In general all toothpaste should be avoided (as well as baking soda) because many of these products contain ingredients that some people’s gums may be sensitive towards. Instead of toothpaste, try using a tooth soap which is much less harmful on the gums and is still very effective at cleaning the mouth and removing bacteria. If tooth soap is not for you, then at least purchase a toothpaste that promotes gum health or claims to prevent gingivitis. Colgate total is one of the few toothpastes available that contains a special ingredient proven to prevent gingivitis.

Flossing

Despite the constant warnings from dentists and oral professionals, most of the adult population simply does not floss on a regular basis. While some people may be able to get away with this feat, for those suffering from bleeding or swollen gums flossing is a must. Ideally a person should floss after every

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