Noticing blood coming out of your gums can be a frightening experience. Bleeding gums are fairly common and can occur due to various reasons. In this article, we will explore the common causes of gum bleeding and actionable steps you can take to stop it.
Table of Contents
Common Causes Of Bleeding Gums
Following are the common causes of bleeding gums:
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
Failure to brush and floss regularly and appropriately can lead to plaque buildup. Once this happens, it can lead to irritation and inflammation of the gums, resulting in gum bleeding. To promote healthy gums, you should aim to brush at least twice a day with good-quality fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should also be done regularly, at least once a day.
2. Gingivitis
Another common cause of bleeding gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, characterized by inflamed, red, and bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing.
3. Periodontitis
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can cause bleeding gums, gum recession, and potential tooth loss.
Research shared by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that 8% of all adults above 30 years have severe periodontal disease. To treat periodontal disease you must practice good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental-checkups to monitor your progress.
4. Smoking
Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections, including gum disease, which can lead to bleeding gums.
5. Diabetes
People with diabetes are more prone to gum infections because high blood sugar levels can weaken the immune system and affect gum tissue, leading to bleeding.
6. Vitamin K Deficiency
Vitamin K plays a pivotal role in blood clotting. Hence, a Vitamin K deficiency can cause excessive bleeding, including bleeding from the gums.
7. Scurvy
Scurvy is a disease caused by a lack of Vitamin C. It can lead to swollen, bleeding gums and tooth loss.
8. HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS can significantly weaken your immune system. This can make you susceptible to gum infections, which result in bleeding.
9. Gum Injury
Physical injury to the gums can lead to bruising and bleeding. If you play contact sports, you are more likely to experience gum injury, so wearing protective wear such as mouth guards is important.
10. Brushing Too Hard
Brushing too hard or too vigorously is not recommended as it can damage the gums, resulting in bleeding.
Tips To Prevent Gum Bleeding
- Use toothpaste for bleeding gums: Toothpaste such as Parodontax is effective in stopping and preventing gum bleeding. It features a specialized formula that helps remove plaque buildup near the gums and is safe for daily use.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush: Dentists recommend using a soft-bristle toothbrush for individuals with recurring gum bleeding problems. It can prevent enamel abrasion and is gentler on the gums, making them less likely to bleed.
- Avoid brushing too hard: Vigorously brushing your teeth and gums can put a lot of pressure on your gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. Brushing harder also does not guarantee better cleaning. Therefore, try brushing gently in a circular motion for around 2 minutes. This can ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy and clean.
- Quit smoking: One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to quit smoking. Smoking can cause a wide array of dental problems, including gum disease, which often causes bleeding. So it is highly recommended to limit or avoid smoking for healthier teeth and gums. Your gums will thank you for it!
- Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide: Did you know that hydrogen peroxide is an excellent way to clean your mouth and stop gum bleeding? Try swishing around a solution of equal parts of household hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration) and water the next time you brush your teeth, but remember to spit it out after doing so. Hydrogen peroxide acts as a disinfectant to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth, remove plaque, and stop gum inflammation and bleeding. Do not swallow hydrogen peroxide, as it can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. Indigestion of higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can cause more severe side effects and can also be fatal.
Conclusion
Gum bleeding is a common oral health concern that often stems from various causes, including gum disease, gum injury, smoking, brushing too hard, or other health conditions such as HIV, scurvy, Vitamin K deficiency, or diabetes.
To prevent bleeding gums, good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and high-quality fluoride toothpaste, is recommended.
If your gums are bleeding profusely or frequently, it is advised that you visit a dentist for an oral health checkup and get the appropriate treatment as necessary.
