How to Stop Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can indicate gum disease and should not be ignored. Usually, people think they need to stop or reduce brushing or flossing their teeth when they notice bleeding, but they need to do the opposite!

Causes of Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can occur for many reasons, but gum disease is the most common. Gum (periodontal) disease refers to the inflammation of the teeth anchored in the mouth.

Plaque buildup along the gumline is typically the first sign that something is wrong. If the plaque is not first removed by regular brushing and flossing, it films and becomes a hard and sticky substance known as tartar, which inflames the gums.

This irritation may cause them to become inflamed, swollen, and bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing.

The progression of gum disease is often categorised into two stages:

1. Gingivitis: Although gingivitis is the initial indication of gum disease, it is also the least severe type. In gingivitis, the gums become inflamed and might sometimes be bleeding. Gingivitis is usually easily treated by improving oral hygiene, but it may cause more severe periodontal disease if not treated.
2. Periodontitis: Without treatment, gingivitis can become a more severe form of gum disease. In this stage, the infection can affect the deeper tissues and bones that support teeth, leading to tooth loss if not treated.

Aside from gum disease, other contributing factors may cause your gums to bleed. These include:

• Dietary Habits: Plaque that accumulates in the mouth due to the consumption of high-sugar diets and simple carbohydrate diets is known to cause gum diseases. This causes an increase in plaque levels since sugars spur the growth of the unhealthy bacteria in your mouth.
• Medicines: Some medicines, such as blood thinners or aspirin, can increase the likelihood of bleeding gums. Medicines that affect blood clotting may cause your gums to bleed more easily, even with regular brushing or minor irritation.
• Hormonal Changes: This is especially so when you are pregnant, on your monthly dates, or when you are undergoing the menopausal period since your hormones change, and this may have an impact on the overall health of your gums. One of the oral complications of pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis, a situation where the gum becomes inflamed and is sensitive to bleeding.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent or incorrect brushing and flossing techniques can allow plaque to accumulate and irritate your gums. Additionally, using a toothbrush with solid bristles may be too harsh on your gums, resulting in bleeding.

Ways to Prevent Gum Bleeding

The good news is that you can make a few simple changes to your oral hygiene routine and lifestyle to stop bleeding gums and maintain healthy gums.

1. Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle to avoid irritating your gums. Floss daily to eliminate debris from food and plaque the brush can’t reach. If your gums bleed, it could mean you’re not flossing effectively.
2. Use Mouthwash: Rinse with an alcohol-free antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria, promoting healthier gums and preventing bleeding.
3. Avoid Smoking: Gum disease is directly related to smoking habits, as smoking elevates the risk. Quitting can improve gum health and reduce bleeding.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C-rich meals, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, strengthen tissues and encourage healing, which benefits gum health.
5. Stay Hydrated: Taking large amounts of water can have a cleansing effect because it rinses food debris and bacteria, as well as existing plaque, out of your mouth, not to mention promoting the general health of the tissues inside your mouth.
6. Use a Soft Toothbrush: Hard-bristled toothbrushes can irritate your gums and lead to bleeding. Stick to soft bristles for effective yet gentle cleaning.
7. Be Gentle with Your Gums: Aggressive brushing injures gums, and twirling the floss between these teeth should also be avoided. Use gentle, circular motions when brushing and carefully glide floss to prevent gum irritation.
8. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine dental check-ups are crucial. Professional cleanings remove tartar that can’t be eliminated at home, and your dentist can diagnose and treat gum issues before they worsen.

What your North Lakes dentist can do

If you think it might be your medicine, please speak with your doctor. They may change your dose or suggest a different medicine.

If you find that the bleeding continues, make an appointment to come in and speak with Dr Sam so he can examine your teeth to determine if you have a more severe condition, such as advanced gum disease.

More adults lose teeth due to gum disease than decay, so please don’t delay making this appointment.

Gum Treatments in North Lakes

At Passion Family Dental North Lakes, prioritising our patients is the only way to provide them with high-quality dental care.

If you’re experiencing bleeding gums or have concerns about your oral health, don’t wait—call us at (07) 3465 1199 or book online here. We will treat you with the utmost attention and urgency.

Visit us at Unit 4/6 Endeavour Boulevard in North Lakes.