Reasons Why Your Gums Are Bleeding

June 27, 2018
Dental Health
Blood from bleeding gums on toothbrush

Bleeding gums can be alarming, and either quickly resolved without inconvenience or an indication of serious medical issues. Discovering the cause and pursuing remedies is crucial to halting its progression and the development of other gum line complications.

Common Causes

The primary cause of bleeding gums is plaque buildup at the gum line. Plaque, a sticky biofilm of bacteria, accumulates and irritates the gums. The body reacts to the irritation by inflaming the tissue, causing gingivitis. As the inflammation persists, the risk for other systemic illnesses increase. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar and can lead to increased bleeding and a more severe form of dental disease called periodontitis. Eight out of ten Americans have periodontal disease in various stages, but only one out of ten know it because symptoms such as bleeding gums don’t generally appear until the disease has advanced considerably.

Other factors that may cause gums to bleed include:

  • Improper or inadequate oral hygiene
  • Irritating dentures or dental appliances
  • Pregnancy-induced hormonal fluctuations
  • Side of effect of medication
  • Tooth or gum infection
  • Bleeding disorder
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Unbalanced bite
  • Stress
  • Small cuts or sores

Prevention and Treatment

Research has shown that gum disease can set in within 24 to 36 hours of not properly caring for oral tissues. Regular checkups with Fairfield Dental Arts and home care can make a huge difference between preserving or losing teeth to gum disease. Here are a few tips to stave off or stop bleeding gums:

  • Commit to professional cleanings and examinations. Fairfield Dental Arts offers expert care and advice on at-home oral care techniques and treatments.
  • Use a soft toothbrush to clean teeth gently and floss teeth twice daily. Be sure to reach spaces between teeth.
  • Massage gums with an oral irrigation tool on low setting.
  • Avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol.-Avoid tobacco products.
  • Follow a nutrient-rich diet. Limit between-meal snacking and empty carbohydrates.
  • If a medicine is causing bleeding gums, consult with a physician about changing medication. Avoid aspirin unless recommended by a physician.
  • Consult a dentist if dentures or dental appliances are causing soreness on the gums.

Call us at Fairfield Dental Arts immediately if:

  • Bleeding is chronic or profuse
  • Gums continue bleeding after treatment
  • Other unusual symptoms accompany the bleeding

At Fairfield Dental Arts, we are here to help you find the culprit behind your dental troubles and decrease the risk and progress of gum bleeding. Make an appointment today!