Have you noticed your gums bleeding immediately after brushing your teeth? If that’s the case, you are not alone. Most people experience gum bleeding at some point in their lives, leading them to wonder, “Why do my gums bleed after brushing?”
Although a small amount of blood may appear insignificant, if your gums bleed regularly, it may be a precursor to various gum diseases. This blog has compiled a list of possible conditions that can cause one’s gums to bleed. Continue reading to find out more.
Common Reasons that Cause Your Gums to Bleed
If you have ever experienced gum bleeding after brushing or flossing your teeth, then it is natural to be worried. However, minor bleeding is relatively insignificant and is no cause for concern.
There are several reasons why your gums may bleed after brushing. Below are the most common factors that cause bleeding gums are:
- Brushing too vigorously, using a frayed toothbrush or a brush with rough, stiff bristles.
- You’ve just begun flossing, and your gums aren’t used to it yet.
- Having dentures that don’t fit well.
- Defective dental restorations.
- Poor oral hygiene.
- Certain medications, like blood thinners, aspirin, and A-G Profen, can also cause gum bleeding.
Diseases That Can Make Your Gums Bleed
Gum bleeding is relatively common and often goes away on its own. However, if the bleeding lasts longer than usual or occurs too frequently, it may indicate underlying gum diseases that require proper diagnosis and treatment.
Whatever be the cause, if your gums are bleeding excessively or frequently, do not ignore it. So, We have put together a list of diseases that might be the reason behind your gums’ bleeding.
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, often manifests as bleeding gums. It is a common and mild form of gum disease caused by plaque buildup at the gum line.
If you have gingivitis, your gums may be irritated, red, and swollen. They may bleed when you brush your teeth. Proper oral care and flossing regularly will help you treat gingivitis.
- Periodontitis: Gingivitis, if left untreated, can advance to periodontal disease, or periodontitis, a long-term gum ailment that damages the tissue and bone that support your teeth.
This causes the gums to bleed easily because the gums are already very irritated and swollen. It can damage and weaken the surrounding bone tissue and tooth roots if left unchecked.
- Pregnancy Gingivitis: Pregnancy, although not an ailment, facilitates what is known as Pregnancy Gingivitis.
It is caused by an increase in progesterone, making your gums more susceptible to plaque. Some symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis include mild bleeding when brushing your teeth and red and inflamed gums.
You can set up an appointment with your dentist and ask them to recommend an anti-gingivitis toothpaste and mouthwash.
Diabetes: Gum bleeding or swelling can indicate Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.
Your mouth isn’t as effective at fighting germs when you have diabetes. So, You’re more prone to infections like gum disease. High blood sugar levels that go hand in hand with diabetes also make it difficult for your body to heal, which can exacerbate gum disease.
- Scurvy: Scurvy is a disease caused by a severe lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in your diet. Vitamin C deficiency in the bloodstream is also associated with a high risk of gum bleeding.
- Vitamin-K Deficiency: If you experience excessive bleeding from your gums, it could be due to a lack of vitamin K in your diet. Vitamin K is significant for blood clotting and stops gums from bleeding.
Ways to Stop Gum Bleeding at Home
Bleeding gums is a common household ailment. It is easily treatable at home. Most often, it doesn’t require you to visit your dentist. If your gums are bleeding, there are several steps you can take to stop bleeding.
- Try applying gauze sponges to the gums and see if they soak up the blood and stop the bleeding.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Also, use a soft-bristled brush and clean your teeth gently.
- Rinse with mild disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide.
- Increase consumption of vitamins C and K.
- Use ice to soothe the swollen gums.
- Rinse the mouth with lukewarm salt water.
- Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush instead of a hard one.
- Floss regularly but carefully.
- Avoid smoking.
- Perform oil-pulling using virgin coconut oil.
- Steer clear of sugar-laden and highly processed foods.
- Lower your stress levels.
- Drink more green tea as it’s good for your oral health.
- Eat a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables.
When Should You Contact Your Dentist?
There can be many factors that cause bleeding gums. While minor gum bleeding is typically not an emergency, it should be examined by a dentist if it persists. If the bleeding is minimal, try the remedies mentioned in this blog, as bleeding gums can easily be treated at home.
However, if bleeding continues for more than 7 days and gets worse instead of improving, you must see your dentist as you may require deep dental cleaning of plaque and tartar.
Have Trouble with Bleeding Gums? Book your Consultation at River’s Bend Family Dental Today!
If you frequently observe that your gums bleed after brushing, then you should see an experienced dentist and find out what’s causing it.
At River’s Bend Family Dental, we specialize in family dentist, cosmetic dentist, and implant dentistry to provide you and your family with complete dental solutions under one roof.
If you are looking for experienced dental professionals to help you diagnose and treat your bleeding gums or have any other pressing dental issues book an appointment at River’s Bend Family Dental today!