Are Bleeding Gums Serious?
Common causes for bleeding gums include brushing your teeth too aggressively or wearing dentures that don’t fit properly. However, they may also be signs of larger health problems, such as gum disease, periodontitis, leukemia, vitamin deficiency, and lack of clotting cells.
Dental conditions that can cause bleeding gums
Gingivitis often develops when plaque stays on the gum line for too long, typically a result of poor brushing and flossing practices. When plaque stays on the gum lines for too long, it can harden into tartar (calculus), leading to bleeding gums. However, in some instances, plaque on the gum line can cause gingivitis.
Symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Puffy gums
- Soreness in the mouth and around the gums
- Bleeding gums
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gingivitis where the gums, jawbone, and supportive tissues that connect your teeth and gums get infected. Periodontitis can lead to teeth loosening or falling out.
Vitamin deficiencies, particularly Vitamins C and K, can also cause gums to bleed. A diet that contains both nutrients can help prevent this, but you may also need to reach out to your doctor to check your levels of vitamin C and K if you have bleeding gums.
Other causes of bleeding gums
- Dentures and other oral appliances can cause bleeding gums if they’re not fitted properly, especially if they fit too tightly. A dentist or orthodontist may need to take new impressions to create a better-fitting mouthpiece to alleviate this.
- Pregnancy and the hormonal changes that occur during it commonly cause the gums to become more sensitive, leading to bleeding.
- Bleeding disorders like hemophilia and leukemia may increase your risk of bleeding gums.
- Blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin, aspirin, and heparin, may also cause bleeding gums.
- Flossing incorrectly or infrequently can also damage the gums and cause bleeding.
- Brushing too hard can lead to bleeding gums. It’s also advised to switch to a soft-bristle toothbrush to prevent further damage.
Treatment for Bleeding Gums
Visiting your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings is critical for preventing bleeding gums. During these cleanings, your dentist can examine whether or not you’re brushing and flossing your teeth properly and if gingivitis is developing. They may also recommend using antiseptic mouthwash to remove plaque, a warm saltwater rinse to soothe swollen gums, a softer toothbrush to be gentler on inflamed gums, and/or an electric toothbrush, which is designed to clean gum lines more easily than a manual toothbrush. Avoid taking any blood thinners that could cause further damage to your gums.
Takeaway
Bleeding gums may be a sign of poor dental care practices, but they can also be a sign of serious health concerns. Visit your primary care provider to determine whether dental health is the underlying issue causing your bleeding gums.
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