If you are brushing and flossing adequately, you may be surprised when you notice blood in your mouth. While occasional bleeding might seem minor, it can indicate an underlying problem that requires immediate attention from a dental team. But, if you don’t know what is causing your bleeding gums, it can be difficult to begin treating the problem. Understanding the cause and treatment can help you maintain a healthier smile.
If you are tired of dealing with bleeding gums, keep reading to learn more about why you may be experiencing this problem and how to treat it.
Why Your Gums Are Bleeding
Bleeding gums can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you aren’t sure why they are occurring. While this is frustrating, there are a few common reasons why you may be experiencing this condition. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Gingivitis or Periodontitis
The most common cause of bleeding gums is gum disease. As plaque and tartar build up along your gum line, you may develop gingivitis. As this disease progresses and the inflammation and sensitivity worsens, it may progress into periodontitis. Whether you are experiencing gingivitis or periodontitis, both are characterized by bloody gums while brushing and flossing.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
As mentioned above, gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by plaque and tartar buildup along your gum line. While you may be brushing and flossing, you might not be doing this thoroughly enough to keep your mouth clean. If you aren’t brushing for at least two minutes and flossing between every tooth, you may notice bleeding gums.
3. Hormone Changes
When you experience hormone changes, you may also notice bleeding gums. As your hormones change, whether due to pregnancy, puberty, or menopause, your body’s response to the bacteria in your mouth may change as well. If you are experiencing gums that bleed as a result of hormone changes, it is essential that you maintain good oral health to help your gums adjust.
4. Blood Thinners
Your doctor may prescribe a blood thinner, also known as anticoagulants, to help prevent heart attacks or strokes. While this can protect you from these detrimental health events, it may also lead to bleeding gums. If you are taking this medication, it is best to tell your dentist about it beforehand so they understand why your gums are bleeding during your appointment.
5. Diabetes
While you might not realize it, your diabetes diagnosis may also be linked to your bleeding gums. Diabetic individuals have more sugar in their saliva. The sugar present in your saliva can lead to a faster development of gum disease. With the development of gum disease, you may notice your gums bleed more frequently while you brush and floss.
6. Poor Diet
The food you eat every day plays a major role in the health of your gums. If you eat a lot of sugary or processed foods, you may find that your gums bleed more frequently when brushing and flossing. Instead of eating these foods, eating foods rich in vitamins A, K, and C is best to help protect your gums from bleeding and potential gingivitis development.
How a Dentist Can Help with Bleeding Gums
If you are experiencing bleeding gums due to gingivitis, periodontitis, or poor oral hygiene, scheduling an appointment with your trusted dental team is in your best interest. With their help, you can determine the cause of your bleeding gums and begin crafting a treatment plan to help you boost your gum health. Some treatments your dental team may recommend to help you improve your gum health include:
- Teeth Cleanings
- Root Planing and Scaling
- Antibiotic Prescription
- Periodontal Surgery
In cases where you are experiencing extreme gum disease, your dentist may recommend a combination of these treatments. It is essential that you follow their advice closely to ensure your gums are properly cared for.
Complementary At-Home Treatment to Protect Your Gums
While going to the dentist is a great way to begin treating bleeding gums, it isn’t the only way to remedy this problem. Your at-home dental care is just as, if not more, impactful on your gum health. In addition to seeking professional care from a dentist to treat your gum problems, consider following these steps to aid your recovery:
- Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once a day.
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid aggravating your gums.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water a few times a day.
- Avoid using tobacco products, including cigarettes and nicotine pouches.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria.
- Schedule regular cleanings with a trusted dentist.
Your Trusted Dental Team in North Ogden, Utah
If you live in the Northern Utah area and are looking for a reliable dental team to help you remedy your bleeding gums, turn to our team at North View Dental for support. We’ve provided the most compassionate and comprehensive dental care to patients across the Wasatch Front for years. Whether you need to schedule dental cleanings, treatment for periodontal disease, or cosmetic dentistry services, we’re here to help you achieve your best oral health.
When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our team, contact us for support.
