Bleeding gums can be a frustrating and worrying symptom. It can be especially bothersome if it occurs while brushing and flossing. Patients who experience bleeding from the gums should contact a dentist to determine the cause and start treatment.
While the sight of blood in the sink can be worrying, having bleeding gums does not have to be scary. In many cases the cause is treatable. Below are some of the most common causes and their treatments.
A deficiency of either vitamin C or K can make gums prone to bleeding. Patients can consult with a doctor to determine if this is the cause. To treat a vitamin deficiency, it is possible to take a supplement or adjust eating habits to include foods rich in vitamin C and K:
Patients can also ask a doctor for a more comprehensive list and diet plan.
Patients who feel that a dental appliance, such as dentures or retainers, are uncomfortable should check if the bleeding is being caused by the appliance. If aligners or dentures fit too tightly or rub in spots, a dentist can make a new mold or adjust them to improve the fit. Bleeding can also be caused by aggressive or overly frequent brushing. Patients should take care to treat sensitive gums gently when brushing, and may consider switching to a toothbrush with softer bristles. Dentists can also provide advice for proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Bleeding gums is one of the symptoms of gingivitis, a type of gum disease that occurs when too much plaque builds up on the gums and teeth. If plaque is allowed to harden, it forms tartar. The presence of tartar can cause gum soreness and bleeding.
If gingivitis goes untreated, it can develop into an infection called periodontitis, which has more severe consequences such as loose or rotted teeth. Patients who suspect they may have gum disease should contact a dentist, who can provide a diagnosis and treatment plan. In its early stages, gum disease can be prevented by twice yearly cleanings, daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash.
Patients taking medications that are known to thin blood, like aspirin or warfarin, may experience bleeding gums as a result. Other conditions such as hemophilia and leukemia can also cause blood thinning and bleeding gums. It is important that patients consult with a doctor and dentist to determine the best course of action.
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Bleeding gums can have several causes. In most cases the treatment is simple, such as using a softer toothbrush, refitting dental appliances, scheduling thorough teeth cleanings, or improving daily care. Depending on the cause, patients should ask a doctor and dentist to help prescribe the ideal treatment.
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In and of themselves, bleeding gums are not a huge cause for concern. However, the cause is worth investigating, as it may indicate a serious condition, such as gum disease or gingivitis, or the root of the issue may be nothing more than a change in dental hygiene habits. Before you panic, check out these…
Many people think it is a normal part of an oral care routine, but dentists warn that bleeding gums are a sign something is wrong. When you brush and floss your teeth, sometimes you may see a little blood coming from your gums. In most cases, bleeding gums are a sign that you may have…
Individuals who experience bleeding gums while brushing should not necessarily be overly alarmed, because it could be caused by temporary irritation or using a brush with too-hard bristles. However, when the gums frequently bleed during brushing, it may be a sign of early gum disease, known as gingivitis. Understanding the link between this bleeding and…