Have you experienced bleeding gums when flossing or brushing your teeth? If so, there’s no need to panic. Gum tissue can bleed for a variety of reasons, not all of which are related to gum disease.
It’s understandable that bleeding gums can be a cause for alarm, however we want to educate our patients about their various causes and how you can treat them if necessary. Here are a few of the most likely causes of gum bleeding.
Common Reasons for Gum Bleeding
Accumulation of Plaque
In most cases, bleeding gums are caused by plaque. Plaque is a thick coating of bacteria that regularly accumulates around and on, as well as between your teeth. A buildup of plaque bacteria can cause the gums to swell, resulting in redness and soreness. This can also lead to gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease.
Plaque can solidify into tartar as it settles around the gum line if you don’t brush and floss properly on a regular basis. Tartar aggravates the gums as it builds up, increasing the likelihood of bleeding.
Periodontitis
If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis damages the teeth and oral tissues, making treatment more difficult. Periodontitis causes the bone and the gums’ inner layer to move away from the teeth, resulting in the formation of pockets. These gaps between the gums and teeth can become infected because of the accumulation of food particles and bacteria. As a result, the jawbone is put at risk, and the teeth are at risk of loosening and falling out because they lack the necessary support!
Vitamin Deficiencies
Another reason for gum bleeding that isn’t related to gum disease is a deficiency in vitamin C or vitamin K. Vitamin C supports the health and strength of the connective tissues of your gums. On the other hand, Vitamin K aids in the healthy clotting of your blood. As such, insufficient vitamins C and K intake or an inability of the body to adequately absorb these vitamins might lead to gum bleeding issues.
Increase vitamins C and K
Citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, peppers, berries, broccoli, and kale are all excellent sources of vitamin C. Get adequate vitamin K by eating a diet rich in foods such as olive oil and soybeans, as well as spinach and watercress.
Overbrushing Your Teeth
Some people believe that vigorously brushing their teeth is the best way to ensure that they are thoroughly clean. However, our gums are highly sensitive. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day for two full minutes is always recommended by our dentists. This is because brushing too hard can actually harm the gums! Not only does overbrushing cause bleeding gums, but it can also lead to gum recession.
Correct brushing techniques
When brushing your teeth, you only need to use a small amount of pressure to remove dental plaque. It’s also better to brush in a rotational motion to reduce gum recession and damage. If the bristles of a new toothbrush bend outwards quickly after you use it, you may be brushing your teeth too vigorously.
Incorrect Flossing Techniques
You may notice that your gums bleed slightly at first if you haven’t flossed consistently for a long time. Flossing is essential, so don’t quit! It’s possible that your technique is to blame. Flossing does not come easily to everyone, and employing the incorrect method might actually cut or recede the gums. Make sure you don’t pull the floss straight down towards your gums to get it between your teeth. Flossing should always be done gently, following the curves of each tooth as you work the floss up and down.
What You Can Do About Bleeding Gums
If you’ve observed bleeding when brushing your teeth more than a few times in a month, it’s best to book a consultation with a dentist. Additionally, bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth can also be a sign that you’re in need of professional help.
The dentist will figure out what’s causing the issue and suggest a course of action. Meanwhile, gargling warm salt water will help to relieve the soreness. Another option is to use an electric toothbrush, which is more effective at cleaning and more difficult to overbrush with.
Taking Care of Your Gums’ Health
Aside from regular brushing and flossing, there are other things you can do to keep your gums in excellent condition. Don’t skip your twice-yearly dental checkups if you want your gums to stay healthy. Even if you’re an excellent flosser, part of that plaque and tartar can only be removed by a dental hygienist with the requisite skills and tools.
If you’re constantly suffering from bleeding gums, schedule a consultation with one of the dentists at Artistic Dental at the biltmore. Our professionals can ensure that your gums are in the best possible health to prevent bleeding and also treat any underlying issues if you have them. To schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help prevent gum bleeding, call us today at 602-840-5400.