Everything You Need to Know About Bleeding Gums
Bleeding Gums and Your Health
Your gums are a great indicator of your overall health. Pink, firm gums that are closer to the teeth signify a healthy mouth, while gums that bleed are not ideal. While there are countless treatments on the market to strengthen and whiten teeth, there are only a few products that are proven to repair gum tissue and deep clean the gumline. Do you notice that your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, and wonder if there is cause for alarm? Bleeding gums are incredibly common and can be worrisome. We’re here to break down the causes of bleeding gums, when you should be concerned about your gums bleeding, and how to treat bleeding gums.
What Causes Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums can be caused by something as simple as your brushing technique or larger, underlying health problems.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
- Gum disease and periodontitis
- Gingivitis
- Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy
- Dentures or other dental devices that are misaligned or don’t fit correctly
- Certain medications like blood thinners, aspirin, or ibuprofen
- Brushing too hard or with a stiff bristle toothbrush
- Starting a new flossing routine
Less Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
While it is not likely, bleeding gums can be a sign of underlying issues such as leukemia, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, Vitamin C or Vitamin K deficiency.
When To See Your Dentist About Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums can be alarming, so it’s essential to know when to consult a professional for treatment. If you notice spontaneous bleeding gums, bleeding gums while eating, or bleeding gums after brushing or flossing more than a few times a month, it’s time to schedule a check up with your dentist. You should also consult your dentist if you notice bleeding with swelling or signs of infection like a fever. A trained dentist will be able to assess your gum tissue and help you to identify the cause of your bleeding gums, as well as prescribe treatment if necessary. Treatments can range from changing your toothbrush to utilizing a gum restoration treatment to reverse signs of gingivitis.
How To Treat Bleeding Gums
5 ways to Fix Bleeding Gums At Home
It’s likely that your bleeding gums are caused by irritation or plaque build-up and can be treated at home. Try these at-home treatments to help heal your gums and stop gums from bleeding again.
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Switch up your toothbrush
If your toothbrush is worn out, stiff, or has bristles that are too firm, it likely is causing irritation and bleeding. The ADA recommends using a manual or electric toothbrush with soft bristles and replacing it every 2-4 months to ensure the bristles are still effective at cleaning without causing damage.
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Floss regularly
Beginning a flossing routine may cause short-term bleeding while your gums adjust, but as the tissue heals and gets used to flossing, bleeding should discontinue. Floss gently, hugging the floss against the side of the tooth and gliding down towards the gum.
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Add a mouthwash or salt water rinse to your routine
An alcohol-free mouthwash or saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and bacteria, thereby preventing bleeding gums and aiding in the healing process. To make a saltwater rinse at home, the ADA recommends mixing half a teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water, then swishing in the mouth twice daily and spitting.
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Quit smoking
Along with many other serious health problems, smoking has been shown to cause gum disease. Smoking weakens the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight off bacteria, including along the gumline. Smoking also reduces the body’s ability to rebuild tissue, so damaged gums take longer to heal. If you currently smoke, consider quitting to benefit your overall health and stop bleeding gums.
