It’s always unsettling to discover blood when brushing and flossing, but what causes bleeding gums? In many cases, dentists recommend that you treat bleeding gums with regular dental care. However, for some, it could indicate an underlying medical problem, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Below, Westchase Smiles Institute covers the possible causes and tips for how to address bleeding gums. The practice also offers an emergency dentist in Tampa, FL, so that you can access immediate care to save a tooth, ease severe pain, and other urgent dental services.
Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are many reasons a person’s gums bleed, including the side effects of blood thinners and poor dental hygiene. So, what causes bleeding gums if there’s good dental health and no medication involved?
Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps the body regrow tissue cells. People with low vitamin C intake often develop swollen gums, which bleed when brushing and flossing.
With low vitamin K, people experience problems with their blood clotting slowly. If combined with a vitamin C deficiency, bleeding gums grow into a bigger problem.
Focusing on boosting vitamins C and K can help increase gum health.
Improper Brushing and Flossing
A person’s dental routine plays a big part in gum health. For example, brushing too hard can cause otherwise healthy gums to bleed. You might also have a poor flossing technique, such as moving the floss back and forth like a saw, which will allow plaque build-up and contribute to gum disease.
For best results, slowly slide the dental floss up and down between the teeth, following the curve of each tooth. Also, brush gently.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis causes bright red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Impeccable dental hygiene is the best way to improve gum health and help extend the life of the teeth. To improve your overall oral health, professionals recommend the following:
- Daily flossing
- Daily brushing
- Antibacterial mouthwash
- Regular dental appointments
Periodontal Disease
Poor dental hygiene over an extended period can lead to problems beyond gingivitis, such as periodontitis. The swollen gums begin to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. The hallmark of periodontal disease is bad breath, which is easily detected by others.
Chemotherapy Treatment
Chemotherapy treatment comes with side effects that affect the mouth. For instance, aside from swollen gums, many patients develop painful ulcers in the mouth.
A medical professional can offer guidance on the best way to combat bleeding gums while undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
Soothe Bleeding Gums With Dental Care in Tampa, Florida
What causes bleeding gums beyond the reasons above? A good starting point to pin down a diagnosis would be to brush and floss correctly and address any ongoing dental problems. If it’s a vitamin deficiency or a serious gum disease, scheduling a dental appointment is a great first step.
Good oral hygiene will improve your gum health, and Westchase Smiles Institute takes a caring approach. Call us to schedule an appointment today, or use our online contact form.
