Discovered a bit of pink in your sink this morning after brushing or flossing your mouth? What could be the reason behind your bleeding gums? Some causes are serious and may require you to schedule a visit to your dentist promptly. Other reasons are mild and can be remedied by introducing small changes to your mouth cleaning routine.
Let’s take a brief look at the most common causes of bleeding gums and how you can prevent them from turning into major problems:
1. Gingivitis – Often the first phase of any gum disease is characterized by symptoms like swollen and tender gums, bleeding while flossing and brushing, etc. It occurs when sticky plaque residue along the gum line leads to bacterial growth, which causes infection, resulting in sensitivity and bleeding. Proper oral care is quintessential for preventing gingivitis.
2. New Toothbrush – If you have recently switched to a hard-bristled toothbrush, it can be the reason why your gums are bleeding. In that case, make sure to replace it with a soft-bristled alternative, and the bleeding should stop after 4 to 5 brushing sessions. Consult with your dentist if it doesn’t.
3. Unhealthy Diet – Certain ingredients used in processed foods can irritate gums and trigger bleeding. Therefore, make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, particularly vitamins C & D, magnesium, and calcium.
4. Pregnancy Gingivitis – If you’re an expectant mother, you should know that an influx of hormones within your body can make your gums tender due to increased blood circulation. Even a little bit of pressure exerted accidentally on the gums while brushing can cause bleeding. Make sure to let your dentist know about it so they can recommend a suitable remedy.
5. Medications – Medicines intended for blood thinning can also cause your gums to bleed. They get in the way of your body’s blood clotting ability and make it easier for places like the gumline to bleed. If you are currently using such medicines, have your dentist recommend a special oral care routine for you.
6. Vaping or Smoking – Many people aren’t aware of it, but smoking, as well as vaping, can cause a variety of problems to your oral health, including bleeding, sensitive and diseased gums. If you think your smoking habits are risking your oral health, ask your dentist to suggest programs or alternatives that you can follow to quit smoking.
If you are experiencing severe pain in your gums and chronic bleeding, book an appointment with us, and we will help you identify the cause and get it under control.
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