Are Bleeding Gums serious?
Bleeding gums can be symptomatic of a more serious condition. However, as a rule most gum disease and bleeding is treated at home with regular care. Gum bleeding is very common, especially in America, and can be treated with proper hygiene. You should be aware of the most common causes of gum bleeding, and when the signs point to something more serious.
Common reasons why your gums are bleeding
- Do you brush regularly? Proper brushing lasts for 2 minutes, brushes your teeth and your gums, and happens at least twice a day.
- Do you floss? Always be flossing. Flossing is one of the most important dental hygiene actions you can take, and it is the best way to combat gum disease. Brushing cleans your teeth and food, flossing help to keep that material out of your gumline. Flossing may cause your gums to bleed initially, but after a week of proper routine flossing, this should no longer be an issue.
- How is your toothbrush? Brushes come with bristles that can be hard, medium, or soft- this bristle toughness can affect your gums. Your toothbrush can also break down and become worn, which can in turn affect your gums.
- Are you taking medication? Blood thinners can make your gums bleed more, and there are tons of other medications which may be having an effect on your gums or infections.
These are common issues to consider when you notice your gums are bleeding. However, none of these identify the most common root cause of bleeding gums. Gum bleeding is usually linked to gum infections, gum disease, or another complication that affects your gums. Infection in your gums are caused by food particles and bacteria getting into your gumline. This creates a bacterial infection underneath the surface of your gums, and this infection leads to bleeding gums.
How to treat bleeding in your gums
- Use Gauze to clot the blood- Clean gauze when applied to your gums with firm pressure should help to stop bleeding in your mouth.
- Use mouthwash- This may burn. You can use alcohol free mouthwash, but you want to clean your mouth as well. Mouthwash will help to fight infection and clean your mouth, which should help with any bleeding.
- Use Ice- Cooling the gums and surface will constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding. Only use ice on a surface for 5 minutes or less.
- Use a warm salt water rinse- This is your grandma’s trick. A little slightly warm salt water will help to clot the blood, constrict your blood vessels, and lessen the bleeding. It will comfort your inflamed gums as a plus.
- See your dentist- The best way to treat bleeding gums is to see a dental health professional, or consult with your dental team. See your dentist, identify the root cause of the bleeding, and treat it with proper hygiene. A dental hygienist may be able to offer more comprehensive care options to help you further understand the health of your teeth, gums, and the ecosystem of your mouth.