Do you have bleeding gums?
Imagine getting ready for bed, looking forward to a deep slumber, only to realize — your gums are bleeding when flossing! Now, instead of sleeping, you are starting to panic; what could be responsible for your bleeding gums?
Before you assume the worst, there are many reasons why blood is oozing from your gums. While bleeding gums is a symptom of periodontal disease, that’s not always the case. Therefore, visit a periodontist to know what the underlying cause is. In this blog, we will mention common bleeding gums causes. Keep reading to find out!
Why Do My Gums Bleed?
If you have bleeding gums, it is usually due to non-serious factors such as brushing your teeth too aggressively. However, other reasons are also responsible, including pregnancy, wearing dentures incorrectly, gingivitis, and more.
Here are some common bleeding gums causes:
1. Aggressive Brushing: If you brush your teeth in a rough manner, thinking it will clean them better — you’re just hurting your dental health. Dentists always recommend gentle technique and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Aggressive brushing is a frequent cause of bleeding gums, and it also leads to gum recession.
2. Gingivitis: Plaque buildup at the gum line is a primary reason behind bleeding gums. Moreover, it can evolve into gingivitis or cause inflammation in the gums if not removed. Therefore, you may notice bleeding, inflamed, swollen, or tender gums while brushing or flossing.
3. Incorrect Denture Fit: Wearing dentures that do not fit correctly may lead to bleeding gums, especially if they scratch your gums and form sores. In addition, it is important to maintain your oral hygiene even more with prosthetics to avoid bacteria and food buildup. Otherwise, you may notice bleeding gums.
4. Pregnancy: Red, swollen, tender, and bleeding gums during pregnancy is pretty common due to hormonal changes.
5. Poor Diet: If you heavily snack on processed food, it may irritate your gums and cause them to bleed. Therefore, pick a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, vitamins, magnesium, and more.
6. Health Issues: People who suffer from liver disease, anemia, leukemia, etc., are prone to bleeding gums.
7. Blood Thinning Medications: Bleeding gums might be a result of blood thinning medications since they affect blood’s ability to clot.
How To Treat Bleeding Gums
Whether the reason is severe or not, you should visit a periodontist if your gums start to bleed. This is because a specialist can assess your mouth and recommend suitable treatments. Some ways you can get rid of bleeding gums include:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush.
- Use a gentle technique to brush your teeth.
- Pay attention to your gum line when brushing your teeth.
- Use interdental brushes or floss in hard-to-reach areas to remove bacteria buildup and plaque.
- Ask your dentist for recommendations on which mouthwash and toothpaste to use.
- Maintain a well-balanced and healthy diet.
- Do not forget to visit your dentist regularly, at least twice a year, for dental cleanings and examinations.
What’s the Takeaway?
So, why are your gums bleeding? To answer, factors such as gum disease, aggressive brushing, pregnancy, poor diet, and other factors might cause your gums to bleed. You can, however, get rid of bleeding gums by visiting a periodontist for treatment. Lake Elsinore Dentistry has the best team who are updated on the effective ways to handle your dental health. Dial (951) 579-1010 to make an appointment with us or drop by at 31581 Canyon Estates Dr #201, Lake Elsinore, CA 92532.