How to Get My Gums to Stop Bleeding

Gum bleeding is a common occurrence that people may experience after brushing their teeth or flossing. The most common reason is a buildup of plaque or tartar, two substances that allow bacteria to grow along the gum line. Common causes for this buildup and sensitivity include not brushing often enough, brushing too hard or stiff, using a frayed, worn toothbrush, using dental floss roughly, taking certain medicines or blood thinners, and having gingivitis.

How to stop gum bleeding:

  1. Gauze can stop gum bleeding when dampened and gently pressed onto the affected area.
  2. Ice or an ice pack can help soothe gums by placing it directly onto the bleeding gums for 10 minutes at a time, followed by a 10-minute break. They are particularly helpful with minor mouth injuries that cause swelling, such as cuts and scrapes, and may reduce pain and swelling caused by gingivitis.
  3. Antibacterial mouthwashes are effective in both treating and preventing bleeding gums by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. Common active ingredients in mouthwashes include chlorohexidine and hydrogen peroxide.
  4. Warm salt rinses can help reduce bacteria and speed up healing times. Swish the salt rinse around your mouth to cleanse the area and then spit the liquid out.
  5. Turmeric paste contains natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Applying turmeric paste to the gums may improve the symptoms of gingivitis and bleeding gums, but there is currently no reliable scientific evidence that states the effects turmeric has on gum disease or bleeding gums.
  6. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are easier on the gums than firm or medium toothbrushes. Replace toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed.
  7. Gentle flossing can help gum bleeding in the long run, but may cause gum bleeding when you first start out since your gums aren’t used to the stimulation.
  8. Avoiding smoking can help prevent gum bleeding. Smoking harms the body’s immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight off bacteria on your gums. In addition, smoking also makes it harder for the body to heal its tissues once they’re damaged.
  9. Avoiding processed and sugary foods can help prevent gum bleeding, as the starchy foods stick to teeth and gums as they break down into sugars, causing inflammation of the gums.
  10. Eating crunchy vegetables such as celery and carrots can help clean teeth between meals.
  11. Eating leafy greens such as kale, lettuce, and spinach. They are high in vitamin K, which helps lower the amount of time it takes for blood to clot.

When to see a dentist

Pain, redness, or bleeding of the gums should not be a daily occurrence. If these problems don’t resolve with good oral hygiene, a dentist can check for early-stage gum disease and other issues. You may also need to see a healthcare professional if you see signs of infection, such as fever or swelling.

Outlook

In minor cases, bleeding gums can be treated with home remedies. It is also possible to prevent bleeding gums in the future by practicing good oral hygiene. If your gums bleed often, visit your dentist, as this may be a sign of gum disease, diabetes, and other blood disorders, such as hemophilia.

Related Article: When Should I Be Concerned with Bleeding Gums?