What Causes Bleeding Gums?
The most common symptom of gum disease is bleeding and inflamed gums. But bleeding gums may be caused by a number of issues or conditions. The occasional bleeding of the gums is common and can be caused by aggressive tooth brushing or wearing dentures that don’t fit correctly. But frequent gum bleeding can also indicate more serious underlying conditions. If you notice you have bleeding gums, it is important to first identify the possible cause. Below is more information on the possible causes of bleeding and inflamed gums.
Dental Conditions That Cause Bleeding Gums
More often than not, dental conditions are the primary cause of bleeding gums. If you visit your dentist to have your bleeding gums evaluated, the first thing your dentist will want to rule out are the following conditions:
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis can develop when plaque is left on the gum and teeth too long. Plaque is a mixture of food debris and bacteria that stick to the teeth. Daily brushing is essential to remove plaque and prevent the development of cavities and gingivitis. If plaque isn’t removed it will harden into tartar, which will cause bleeding. The first symptoms of gingivitis are puffy and swollen gums that are irritated and bleed lightly.
- Periodontitis: When gingivitis is left untreated and advances, it can become periodontal disease (periodontitis). Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, jawbone, and tissues that connect your teeth and gums.
Other Causes of Bleeding Gums
Beyond dental conditions, there are a number of other possible causes of bleeding gums, including:
- Vitamin deficiencies: If your diet is deficient in vitamin C and/or K it can also cause the gums to bleed easily. These vitamins play an important role in restoring your tooth health, boosting your immunity, and helping your blood clot.
- Poorly Fitting Dentures: Dentures that do not fit properly may also cause bleeding gums from slipping and sliding or from fitting too tightly.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy hormones in the body can change dramatically, causing an increase in blood flow to the gums. This blood flow can result in swelling and light bleeding.
- Other Health Conditions: Bleeding disorders like hemophilia and leukemia can increase the risk of bleeding gums, and so can taking certain medications like warfarin, aspirin, and heparin.
Treatment of bleeding gums
If you notice your gums are irritated and starting to bleed lightly, the first step you can take is making sure to practice good dental hygiene. Proper brushing and flossing can make sure to remove plaque from your gum line and reduce your risk of developing gingivitis. There are other steps you can take too. You can try using antiseptic mouthwash to minimize plaque that forms in your mouth. If your gums are sore in addition to bleeding, you can rinse with warm salt water several times a day for a few days to help treat the gums. Lastly, if you notice your gums are sensitive, switching to a soft toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with a special head can help the gums heal if they are inflamed.