Bleeding gums are a frequent and common issue and are usually not considered a severe problem. You might observe some blood after brushing or flossing your teeth, because both actions can irritate sensitive gums. The most routine cause for your bleeding gums is the buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth. This accumulation promotes bacteria growing along your gum line, which immediately infects your gums. Consistent daily and proper oral hygiene at home, along with preventative exams with your dentist every six months, will prevent gum sensitivity and halt gum bleeding.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are several potential causes for bleeding gums, including gum disease, which might need attention from your dentist. Frequent causes of bleeding gums can include:
- Neglecting to brush your teeth twice a day which leaves plaque and tartar on your teeth.
- Using a toothbrush too aggressively, or one with bristles that are too stiff.
- Using a tired and worn-out toothbrush that is no longer effective.
- Being too aggressive with dental floss can irritate your gums.
- Taking certain medicines, like blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
- Having gingivitis, or the first level of gum disease.
When You Should See Your Dentist
It is wise to schedule an appointment with your dentist anytime you notice changes in your teeth, gums, or mouth.
Any discomfort, pain, swelling, redness, a fever, or bleeding of the gums is not healthy or normal. If the condition persists and does not go away with daily good oral hygiene practices, your dentist can conduct an examination and identify if it could be early-stage gum disease or another issue.
Other contributing causes can be vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin C or K, pregnancy, or a specific medical condition, resulting in bleeding gums. See your dentist if the bleeding gums continue after trying to treat them at home. You can treat at home by trying these efforts; start with a proper toothbrush twice a day, floss patiently, try a mouthwash or a warm saltwater rinse, use ice, a gauze pad, avoid smoking, and avoid processed or sugary foods.
Regular and consistent dental exams prevent and stop early-stage gum disease from progressing. If neglected and left untreated, your gum disease will accelerate to more infection and even tooth loss. Your dentist will evaluate the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth and determine if there are any other problems, like the presence of oral cancer.
Preventing Bleeding Gums in The Future
The simplest way to prevent bleeding gums is by leading a healthy lifestyle to ward off any diseases that cause bleeding gums.
You can quite often prevent bleeding gums and other gum problems by simply:
- Practicing good oral health care at home by brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing daily to remove the damaging plaque.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.
- Scheduling a preventative dental exam every six months.
- At each exam, you have your teeth professionally cleaned.
- Seeing your family doctor consistently monitors any possible health problems that might contribute to gum problems, such as diabetes.
- Following a healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables, and limiting processed foods and added sugars.
- Try to avoid smoking or seek help to find a way to quit.