Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
Our gums are made of sensitive tissue that can be easily irritated or damaged. This is why gums that are tender, swollen, and bleed are so common among adults. Some of the common causes of bleeding gums include brushing your teeth too hard, dental conditions, or chronic health conditions. We provide more information below on some of the common causes of bleeding gums and tips on how to treat them.
Dental Conditions That Cause Bleeding Gums
Dental conditions are the most common cause of bleeding gums, and the most common of these is gum disease. Gum disease develops when daily brushing and flossing are neglected, and plaque is allowed to build up along the gum line. Plaque is the sticky substance that develops from food debris that contains bacteria. Daily brushing and flossing help remove plaque from the teeth and prevent the irritation and infection that plaque can cause in the gums. When plaque and bacteria are left to grow, it will cause the gums to become irritated, inflamed, and increase bleeding. Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Swollen and puffy gums
- Tender and sore gums
- Bleeding gums
In contrast, trying to maintain good oral hygiene but having bad technique can also increase the risk of bleeding gums. Brushing too aggressively, using a toothbrush that is too firm, or being too forceful when flossing can all cause damage to the gum tissue and cause irritation and bleeding.
Other Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
Besides common oral health conditions, other oral health factors can cause bleeding gums. For example, people who wear dentures may experience bleeding gums due to rubbing or ill-fitting appliances that irritate the gum tissue. Additionally, for women, periods of hormonal change, such as pregnancy and menopause, may cause the gums to become increasingly sensitive and bleed. Alternatively, there are some health conditions, such as bleeding disorders including hemophilia and leukemia, that increase the risk of bleeding gums. There are also some common medications that might cause the gums to bleed more, such as taking blood-thinners, including warfarin, aspirin, and heparin.
How to Treat Bleeding Gums
The first step to treating bleeding gums is to focus on good dental hygiene. Properly brushing twice daily and gently flossing once daily will go a long way toward reducing plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Maintaining regular dental visits with professional cleanings twice a year is essential to preventing gum disease and identifying any concerning issues with your oral health.
If you have questions about your brushing or flossing technique, your dentist is the perfect person to ask. Your dentist may also encourage you to use an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate plaque and bacteria or to try an electric toothbrush to make daily brushing easier.
If you have tried to improve your oral hygiene and have noticed that your gums are still bleeding, your dental provider or primary healthcare provider is your next best option. They will help you identify the cause of the bleeding and determine the best treatment options for you.