Bleeding gums when brushing your teeth is a condition that can be caused by several factors and can be a sign of a more serious oral health problem. Here is an article that talks about the solution to bleeding gums when brushing: its causes, the types of bleeding, the treatment and tips to prevent it.
What causes bleeding gums?
- Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is one of the most common causes of bleeding gums when brushing. This inflammatory disease can cause gum recession and bleeding.
- Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth with a toothbrush that is too hard can irritate the gums and cause bleeding.
- Lack of oral hygiene: Lack of proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, can contribute to bleeding gums.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as menstruation or pregnancy, can increase gum sensitivity and cause bleeding when brushing.
What types of bleeding are there?
- Mild: Mild bleeding gums are common and can be caused by poor oral hygiene or using a toothbrush that is too hard.
- Moderate: Moderate gum bleeding may be caused by periodontal disease or dental infection.
- Severe: Severe bleeding gums may be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a systemic infection or autoimmune disease.
Solution to bleeding gums
- Brush your teeth gently: Use a soft toothbrush and brush your teeth with gentle, circular movements.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris that can irritate the gums.
- Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help strengthen gums and prevent bleeding.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and use mouthwash to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Consult a dentist: If you experience frequent or persistent bleeding gums, consult a dentist for proper evaluation and treatment.
- Quit smoking: Tobacco can irritate the gums and increase the risk of periodontal disease, so it is important to quit smoking to prevent bleeding gums.
When should you see a dentist?
Occasional bleeding after brushing too hard is usually not serious, but repeated bleeding is not normal: it is the first warning sign of gingivitis. Book an appointment if you notice any of these signs:
- Your gums bleed almost every time you brush or floss.
- The bleeding lasts more than a week despite better hygiene.
- Your gums are red, swollen or receding.
- You have constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
- A tooth feels loose or has shifted position.
At a periodontics appointment the state of your gums is assessed and the disease is stopped before it affects the bone that holds your teeth.
Frequently asked questions about bleeding gums
Is it normal for gums to bleed when brushing?
No. A healthy gum does not bleed with normal brushing. If it bleeds, it is inflamed, and the most common cause is accumulated bacterial plaque.
Should I stop brushing the area that bleeds?
Quite the opposite: keep brushing that area, gently and with a soft-bristled brush. Avoiding it lets more plaque build up and makes the bleeding worse.
Does mouthwash cure bleeding gums?
It helps as a complement, but it does not replace brushing or cleaning between the teeth, and it cannot remove tartar that has already formed: only a professional dental cleaning can do that.
Why do gums bleed more during pregnancy?
Hormonal changes make the gums more sensitive to plaque. During pregnancy it is worth being extra thorough with hygiene and not skipping check-ups.
