A Guide to Bleeding Gums: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Bleeding gums are a common oral health concern that many of us may encounter, but often, the underlying causes and appropriate treatments are not widely understood. Understanding why your gums bleed is crucial, as it can be an early warning sign of gum disease or other dental health issues.
This is why we’ve compiled this guide on the causes of bleeding gums and the most effective treatments available. This knowledge is essential not only for maintaining good oral hygiene but also for ensuring your long-term dental health.
Why are my gums bleeding?
While any time your gums bleed should be cause for concern, understanding why your gums are bleeding will help you create a plan of action.
Two main causes lead to bleeding gums: mechanical damage and physiological conditions. Mechanical damage to your gums can be caused by brushing, flossing, or using interdental tools with too much force. You may even experience a bit of bleeding if you are eating hard foods that scrape against your gums.
The physiological mechanisms that cause gums to bleed involve a combination of factors related to the body's inflammatory response and the health of the gum tissues. These might include diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, systemic health issues like diabetes, or reactions to certain medications.
Common causes of bleeding gums
The primary cause of bleeding gums is plaque buildup along the gumline. This plaque houses harmful bacteria. The bacteria consume sugars and release toxins which can lead to inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis.
As gingivitis persists, plaque continues to accumulate, hardens to tartar and prolonged irritation of gum tissues leads to bleeding of the gums. Left untreated, gingivitis will advance to a chronic disease of the gums and jaw bone known as periodontitis.
Other conditions that contribute to bleeding gums include:
Vitamin deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins can lead to bleeding gums. For instance, vitamin C deficiency can lead to a condition called scurvy, a symptom of which is bleeding gums.
Pregnancy and hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstruation, puberty, or menopause can affect the health of your gums. Increased hormone levels can lead to increased blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive and susceptible to bleeding.
Medication use: While blood thinning medications do not cause bleeding, they can contribute to excess blood flow should bleeding occur. Apart from blood-thinning medications, other drugs including certain antibiotics can also affect gum health. Some medications can cause dry mouth or other changes that may indirectly lead to gum problems and bleeding. It’s important to discuss any medications you’re taking with your dentist.
Underlying health conditions: Conditions like diabetes can affect your gums. Poor blood sugar control can lead to a higher risk of gum disease and bleeding gums. Additionally, diseases that affect the immune system can impact the health of your gums.
A note about blood thinning medications: Tell your dentist if you are taking blood thinners ahead of any dental procedures so they can take the proper precautions to reduce bleeding.
How to treat and stop bleeding gums
Maintaining healthy gums is a daily commitment, involving both good practices and avoiding certain habits. To enhance your oral care routine, consider the following tips:
Practise a daily oral hygiene ritual: Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to clean between your teeth daily using floss or an interdental brush. This helps remove plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can't reach. Follow with mouthwash to ensure a complete clean.
Use of a soft toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush is less abrasive on your gums. Brush gently to avoid gum irritation and recession. If you experience discomfort while brushing, an ultra-soft toothbrush can be a gentler option.
Use the right dental products: Use toothpaste and mouthwash specifically designed for gum health. Products formulated for sensitive teeth or early stages of gum disease can be beneficial. Look for items containing fluoride and ingredients that target bacteria causing gum disease.
Eat a balanced diet: Reducing sugary foods and drinks is important as they contribute to plaque formation. Include plenty of vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet to boost gum health.
Limit or eliminate smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Tobacco use in any form can exacerbate gum problems and delay healing. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact oral health. Avoiding or quitting these habits can significantly improve your gum health.
Visit your dentist regularly: Prevention is the best cure! Visiting your dentist at least twice a year is crucial. They can spot early signs of gum disease and provide professional cleaning to remove tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone.
If you have persistent issues with bleeding gums, it's best to consult with a dentist for personalised advice and treatment. They can help you find the best solution and ensure your oral health is on the right track.
In the meantime, carry on with your normal oral care routine – don’t stop brushing or cleaning between your teeth with floss or an interdental brush.
