Gum bleeding can be uncomfortable and concerning, and it frequently signals a more serious oral health problem. Even though bleeding during brushing or flossing could happen occasionally and seem unimportant, it’s important to know what could be causing it. Here are 10 reasons why you may have bleeding gums.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene is one of the main reasons of bleeding gums. The irritation known as gingivitis can result from plaque buildup along the gum line. Gums that bleed often can develop into more serious periodontal disease if gingivitis is not properly removed.
Gingivitis
Gum inflammation is the main symptom of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. Although plaque accumulation is usually the cause, other variables like smoking, hormone fluctuations, and certain drugs can also play a role. In addition to redness and swelling, bleeding gums are frequently seen signs of gingivitis.
Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, a more serious kind of gum disease, if treatment is not received. The infection that causes periodontitis spreads to the gums and bone, which are the teeth’s supporting tissues. This can result in loose teeth, foul breath, and receding gums, which can bleed more.
Hormonal Changes
Gum health can be impacted by changes in hormone levels, such as those that happen during menopause, puberty, or pregnancy. Gums can become more sensitive and prone to bleeding due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes. Pregnancy gingivitis, which is characterized by bleeding and inflammation of the gums, is particularly common in pregnant women.
External Medications
Anticoagulants and blood thinners are two examples of drugs that can make gum bleeding more likely. These drugs prevent blood clots from forming properly, which increases the risk of bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. It is recommended to inform your dentist if you take any medications so they can provide you with the right advice.
Vigorous Brushing or Flossing
Although regular brushing and flossing are necessary to keep your teeth healthy, overly vigorous scrubbing might damage your gums. Gum irritation and bleeding can result from using a toothbrush with rough bristles. Similarly, gum tissue can be harmed by excessively aggressive flossing.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Vitamin C and K deficits in particular can have an adverse effect on gum health and worsen bleeding gums. Gum tissue stability depends on the formation of collagen, which is greatly aided by vitamin C. Blood clotting activities are aided by vitamin K, which helps to stop excessive bleeding. Gum health can be promoted by include a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.
Smoking
Oral health is negatively impacted by tobacco use, which includes both smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco products. Because smoking reduces blood flow to the gums and weakens the immune system’s capacity to fight infection, it raises the risk of gum disease. Smokers are more prone to other oral health issues, including bleeding gums.
Stress
Prolonged stress can impair the immune system and raise inflammation all across the body, including the gums. Anger-related behaviors like clenching or grinding teeth (bruxism) can also aggravate gums and cause bleeding. Developing appropriate coping mechanisms for stress, including working out, practicing mindfulness, or consulting a therapist, can be good for your general and oral health.
Systemic Health Conditions
Diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and other systemic health issues can affect gum health and raise the risk of bleeding gums. For example, diabetes can worsen blood flow and reduce the body’s defenses against infection, increasing the risk of gum disease. Keeping these underlying illnesses under control is essential to preserving dental health.
Gum bleeding frequently indicates underlying dental health problems that need to be addressed. You can safeguard your dental health and stop more issues by being aware of the typical causes of gum bleeding and taking proactive measures to resolve them. Following a regular schedule for dental cleanings and dental check-ups at the dentist can help you prevent gum bleeding or reduce the symptoms of gum bleeding. At Go Dental Clinic, our Specialist Periodontists can provide you with the best treatment for your gum issues. Call us today at 800777000 to book an appointment with our Specialist Periodontists.
