Bleeding gums can be a sign that you have or are at risk for periodontal disease. Persistent gum bleeding may be due to plaque build-up on the teeth. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition.
Bleeding gums can be a sign that you have or are at risk for periodontal disease. Persistent gum bleeding may be due to plaque build-up on the teeth. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition.
Causes
The main cause of bleeding gums is plaque buildup at the gum line. This leads to a condition called gingivitis or swollen gums.
Plaque that is not removed will harden and turn to tartar. This will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of periodontal and jaw bone disease known as periodontitis.
Other causes of bleeding gums can be:
º Any bleeding disorder
º Brush with great force
º Hormonal changes during pregnancy
º Prosthetics or other poorly fitting dental appliances
º Misuse of dental floss
º Infection, which can be both in the teeth and in the gums
º Leukemia, a type of blood cancer
º Scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency
º Use of anticoagulants
º Vitamin K deficiency
Home care
Visit the dentist at least every 6 months to remove plaque. Follow your dentist's recommendations for home care.
Brush your teeth gently with a soft bristle brush at least twice a day. It is best if you can brush after every meal. Also, flossing twice a day can prevent plaque build-up.
Your dentist may tell you to rinse with salt water or with hydrogen peroxide and water. Do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol, which can exacerbate the problem.
Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help. Try to avoid snacking between meals and cut back on carbohydrates.
Other tips to help with bleeding gums:
º Get a periodontal exam.
º Do not use tobacco as it aggravates the bleeding of the gums. Tobacco use can also hide other problems that cause bleeding gums.
º Control gum bleeding by applying pressure directly to the gum with gauze soaked in ice water.
If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, take vitamin supplements.
º Avoid using acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) unless your healthcare provider has advised you to take it.
º If side effects of one medicine are causing your gums to bleed, ask your provider to prescribe another medicine. Never change your medicine without checking with your provider first.
º Use an oral irrigation device on the low setting to massage the gums
º See your dentist if your dentures or other dental appliances do not fit well or are causing sore spots on your gums.
Follow your dentist's instructions on brushing and flossing to avoid damaging your gums.
What do you think?
Have you ever had a gum bleed? What has been your experience? Leave us your opinion in the comment box.
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