Bleeding Gums? Here’s What Every Filipina Needs to Know
Bleeding gums may be more than you think. Learn how to spot, treat, and prevent gum disease—especially if you're a Filipina.
Have you ever noticed a bit of blood when brushing or flossing and thought, “That’s normal, right?” 😬 Well, it might be more serious than you think.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a silent threat that affects many Filipinos, often without obvious symptoms until it’s advanced.
In fact, about 78% of Filipinos have gum diseases, making it a significant public health concern in the Philippines .
Ignoring early signs like bleeding gums can lead to more severe issues, including tooth loss.
But don’t worry—gum disease is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early.
If you’re in Makati or Metro Manila, our team at Kirdlappi Dental Clinic is here to help you maintain healthy gums and a confident smile.
🔍 Understanding Gum Disease: What Is It?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s primarily caused by poor oral hygiene that allows plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.
In its early stage, called gingivitis, gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that can lead to tooth loss .
Quick Tip: Regular brushing and flossing, along with professional dental cleanings, are your best defense against gum disease.
⚠️ Common Causes of Gum Disease
Several factors can contribute to the development of gum disease:
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup.
- Smoking or Chewing Tobacco: Tobacco use is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease.
- Hormonal Changes: Such as those occurring during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, can make gums more sensitive.
- Medical Conditions: Diseases like diabetes can affect the condition of your gums .
Did You Know? Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease, making dental care even more crucial for expectant mothers.
🩸 Recognizing the Symptoms
Early detection is key. Be on the lookout for:
- Bleeding Gums: Especially during brushing or flossing.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Also known as halitosis.
- Swollen or Red Gums: Indicating inflammation.
- Loose Teeth: A sign of advanced gum disease.
- Receding Gums: Making teeth appear longer .
Personal Note: Many of my patients are surprised to learn that bad breath can be an early sign of gum disease. It’s not just about mints—it’s about gum health!
🛠️ Treatment Options Available
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease:
- Professional Dental Cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line.
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning procedure under local anesthesia.
- Medications: Such as topical antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses.
- Surgical Treatments: In advanced cases, procedures like flap surgery may be necessary .
Quick Tip: Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can often be reversed with proper dental care and improved oral hygiene.
🛡️ Preventing Gum Disease
Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss Daily: To remove plaque between teeth.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: At least twice a year.
- Quit Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet to boost your immune system .
Trivia: People with diabetes are at higher risk for gum disease, making regular dental visits even more important for managing overall health.
More Tips: Stress and Jaw Pain – 7 Hidden Ways It’s Affecting Your Teeth
📞 Take Action Today
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease or it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, contact Kirdlappi Dental Clinic in Makati. Our friendly and experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Remember, healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Let’s work together to keep yours in top shape!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice. Please contact and visit Kirdlappi Dental Clinic for proper oral health care advice and treatment.
Dr. Armie Kirdlappi is the founder and chief gentle-dentist-in-residence at Kirdlappi Dental Clinic in Makati. With over two decades of experience (and thousands of fearless smiles to prove it), she believes dental care should never be scary or confusing. That’s why every article here is reviewed by Doc Armie herself—to help you understand your teeth without the dental jargon headache.
Her secret superpower? Making even the most nervous patients say, “Ay, ‘yun na pala ‘yon?”
