What causes bleeding gums?
Are you experiencing gum bleeding? It is startling, sometimes painful, and always confusing- but it is common and can be treated. You can explore several reasons or causes for gum bleeding, but ultimately only you and your dentist will be able to figure out what is causing your gum bleeding. Everyone is different, but some causes are far more common than others.
Most common causes of bleeding gums
- Gingivitis-The most common form of gum disease, and the most common reason for gum bleeding is gingivitis.
- Periodontitis- Periondtitis is an inflammation caused by infection, like advanced gingivitis. It can cause severe gum damage and affect your ability to chew. It can cause your gums to detract from your teeth, leading to tooth loss.
- Pregnancy- Pregnancy places great demands on your body, in exchange for something wonderful. It is very common to experience gum bleeding while pregnant. Your body is under a constant strain and dental hygiene and infections become much more important and common.
- Diabetes- Diabetes compromises your immune system, especially with poor blood sugar management. When your sugars are spiking your body has a much harder time fighting infections. This can create a sandbox for dental infections and gum bleeding.
- Vitamin Deficiency-Certain vitamins, like C and K, can have an effect on your gums. Not having enough of them in your body can make it easier for your gums to bleed. Consult with your hygienist and dietitian about deficiencies.
- Tooth damage- Broken or damaged teeth can physically harm your gums which can cause bleeding. The damage your broken teeth cause your gums can also leave spaces for gums to become infected.
- Gum disease-Gum disease is the most common cause of bleeding gums. Gum infections happen when food particles enter into your gumline and infect them with bacteria. Gum disease is particularly dangerous if you are pregnant, have diabetes, or are immunocompromised. Anything that hinders your body’s ability to fight infection will create a situation that is prone to gum disease.
Any of these, and more, can cause gum bleeding. The only way to identify exactly what is causing it is to see and dentist or dental hygienist.
How can I fix bleeding gums?
You need to treat the symptoms to solve your bleeding gums. You need to brush around the area, and clean your gums and teeth. If your gums are tender, use a nice soft bristle brush and gum friendly toothpaste. Brush with soft, gentle circular motions and be conscious not to scrub the area too hard. Floss in between every tooth, down to the gumline. Using a water flosser or tongue scrubber is helpful as well, but nothing physically clears this space like dental floss. Use the floss in a taut line and guide it in between every tooth, and follow the contour of both sides to remove plaque and tartar. Mouthwash can also be a beneficial tool to cover areas you could never physically reach with a brush or floss. Mouthwash can be used to coat the whole mouth and clean into your gums.
Nothing is as effective as regular screenings and cleanings with your dental professional.