How to Get My Gums to Stop Bleeding
Many Americans experience bleeding gums. In most cases, bleeding gums are not something to worry about; however, when the bleeding becomes more frequent, it may be a sign of a more serious health problem. If your gums have been bleeding recently, you can try the tips below to stop the bleeding.
Practice good oral hygiene:
Bleeding gums are commonly caused by poor dental hygiene techniques. If you neglect your daily oral hygiene and don’t brush or floss enough, a sticky substance called plaque can build up along the gum line. This plaque contains bacteria that can spread and cause gum disease. In the early stages of gum disease, the gums become tender, inflamed, and may start to bleed lightly.
Sometimes bleeding gums are caused by poor hygiene techniques. For example, brushing too aggressively, using toothbrushes that are too firm, or cutting the gums with floss can all damage sensitive gum tissue. To care for your gums, brush your teeth at least twice daily using gentle circular motions, and gently floss once a day.
Stop smoking:
If you are a regular smoker, you likely know that smoking increases your risk of many health conditions. However, you may not know that smoking also increases your risk for gum disease. Not only does smoking increase the risk for developing gum disease, but it also makes it harder for the gums to recover or repair, even when they are being treated. Smoking impairs the body’s immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infection caused by bacteria, and it slows the healing of the gum tissue. Smoking may not be causing your gums to bleed, but it may be making it harder for your gums to heal and stop bleeding.
Reduce stress levels:
Researchers have found a link between stress and gum disease. This is because increased stress weakens the immune system’s ability to fight infection. It is also likely that when individuals are stressed, they neglect their daily oral hygiene routine. If you have been stressed lately, try to focus on strategies to manage your stress and prioritize your oral health as a form of self-care.
Healthy diet:
There are several dietary changes that may help improve your oral health. Foods rich in vitamin C help the immune system fight infections, likely those caused by plaque buildup. Additionally, vitamin K helps blood clot. Both vitamins are important for stopping gum bleeding and promoting the healing of healthy tissue. Lastly, foods high in sugar should be avoided because sugar encourages plaque and bacteria to grow.
Foods rich in vitamin C include:
- oranges
- sweet potatoes
- red peppers
- carrots
Foods rich in vitamin K include:
- spinach
- collard greens
- kale
- mustard greens
When Should You See Your Doctor?
If your gums are bleeding regularly and they do not improve within 7 to 10 days, you should make an appointment to see your dental provider. Your provider can help identify the cause of the bleeding and determine the best way to treat it.