Quick Read
We normally have one question in our mind when brushing teeth like, why do my gums bleed when I brush my teeth. So here is the detailed narration of gum problems and gum bleeding.
Medical word for gum bleeding is “gingivitis”. It is defined as Inflammation of gums that is caused when plaque accumulates in the spaces between the gums and teeth.
One fine morning when you woke up after a good sleep and started brushing your teeth, you realized that you were spitting a slight amount of blood with the foam. After a while, you may notice the bleeding even while eating or at times spontaneously, and you may notice gum bleeding around one tooth or gum is swollen around one tooth. In some situations , gums bleeding for no reason if you brush too hard.
Never ignore bleeding gums as they might be the mirror to a more serious problem.
Causes for Gum Bleeding:
Poor Oral Hygiene:
Improper brushing and flossing techniques result in plaque buildup on the teeth. This plaque buildup leads to red, swollen, painful, and irritated gums. Gums may then bleeding at the slightest provocation. Poor oral hygiene plays a major role in many dental diseases.so it is very important to keep the oral cavity healthy.
Mal Positioned Teeth:
It is very difficult to clean the irregularly arranged teeth. Plaque accumulation will occur between the teeth and under the sulcus area. This leads to gingival irritation and gum bleeding.
Trauma to The Gum:
Overzealous brushing and using a hard bristle toothbrush can cause trauma to the gingiva. Due to this trauma gingiva bleeds.
Vitamin C Deficiency:
Vitamin C is necessary for gingival health. Decreased levels of vitamin C can cause bleeding from gums. Read How to Overcome Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin K Deficiency:
Vitamin K is required for blood coagulation. Gut microbes play a major role in the synthesis of vitamin K.prolonged use of oral antibiotic destroy the gut microbes which results in vitamin K deficiency.it affects the blood coagulation process and it can cause bleeding from gums.
Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal changes occur in females at the time of puberty and pregnancy. These changes may cause bleeding gums. The usage of blood thinners as a regular medication may also cause bleeding in gums.
Apart from these other reasons are
- Stress
- Radiation Therapy
- HIV
- Bleeding Disorders
- Tobacco Usage
- Liver Diseases
- Cancer Such as Leukaemia (Blood Cancer)
What are the Symptoms of Gum Bleeding (gingivitis)?
For many people with gingivitis, this inflammation is not painful.
- Gingiva appears red in color
- Swollen gums
- Painful, irritated gums
- Gums may bleed at slightest provocation such as brushing or probing
A severe case of gingivitis is marked by swollen, bleeding gums, and swollen lymph nodes around the jaw and neck.
Does gingivitis go away:
If you catch gingivitis early, it can be reversed and healed with proper oral hygiene. But if it is left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and ultimately lead to tooth loss
- Scaling and root planning to remove the plaque and to soften the rough areas on the root
- Use Antibiotic mouth wash
- Daily twice brushing
- Use dental floss daily
- Oral antibiotics can be given to treat persistent areas of gum inflammation.
- Quit habits like smoking and chewing tobacco
- Orthodontic correction is needed for malpositioned teeth
- Certain medications are risk factors for gum bleeding.so consult your doctor before using steroids, oral contraceptives
- You should change your toothpaste and use a toothpaste that can clean and neutralize the plaque found around the gum line. Also try Crest Gum & Enamel Repair, which also helps repair weakened tooth enamel.
How to stop bleeding gums naturallyGum Bleeding naturally?
- Maintain proper and consistent oral hygiene
- Take a balanced diet
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every day
- Regular dental visits
- Use soft-bristled toothbrush
- Avoid overzealous brushing
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid extremely cold or hot foods
It can be very useful in healing gums inflamed by gingivitis. Saltwater has disinfectant qualities and can help the body to heal. It also reduces bacteria in the mouth, removes particles of food, and relieve bad breath. You should do this rinse two or three times per day, but not for too long.
So, the next time you notice bleeding gums, you know well not to neglect it and visit a dentist at the earliest.
