Bleeding Gums

Do you have bleeding gums? Why are your gums bleeding? What causes the gum disease? How to treat this condition? Dr. Bayat explains what you need to do to keep your gums healthy.

BOOK APPOINTMENT

If you live in Southern California, feel free to Schedule a New Patient Visit with us in Zak Dental offices in Agoura Hills, Covina/San Dimas, Downey, Long Beach, North Park, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Simi Valley, Temecula, Valencia, Ventura, and Whittier/La Mirada, California.

For all your dental needs, call to schedule an appointment 833-ZAK-TEAM.

Bleeding Gums FAQ

What causes gums to bleed?

Bleeding gums are often caused by:

Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup.
Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup.
Vitamin deficiencies: Lack of vitamins, particularly Vitamin C (scurvy) and Vitamin K.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can make gums more sensitive.
Medical conditions: Diabetes, blood disorders, and certain infections.
Medications: Blood thinners and some other medications can increase gum bleeding.
Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can harm gums.
Improper dental appliances: Ill-fitting dentures or braces.

How can I prevent my gums from bleeding?

To prevent bleeding gums:

Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings and check-ups.
Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Quit smoking: Avoid tobacco products.
Proper dental appliances: Ensure your dentures or braces fit well.
Manage underlying health conditions: Keep diabetes and other health conditions under control.

When should I see a dentist for bleeding gums?

You should see a dentist if:

Your gums bleed frequently or excessively.
You have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
Your gums are swollen, red, or painful.
You notice receding gums or loose teeth.
Over-the-counter treatments do not improve your condition.

Can bleeding gums indicate a serious health problem?

Yes, bleeding gums can indicate more serious health issues such as:

Periodontitis: An advanced form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to gum infections.
Leukemia: Bleeding gums can be an early sign of this blood cancer.
Vitamin deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins can cause bleeding gums.

What home remedies can help with bleeding gums?

Home remedies to help manage bleeding gums include:

Saltwater rinse: Gargle with a mixture of salt and warm water.
Good oral hygiene: Consistently brush and floss properly.
Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Use a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution.
Herbal remedies: Rinse with sage tea or apply turmeric paste.
Increase vitamin intake: Eat foods rich in Vitamin C and K.

What treatments are available for bleeding gums?

Treatments for bleeding gums include:

Professional cleaning: Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar.
Medications: Antimicrobial mouth rinses, antibiotics, or prescription mouthwashes.
Surgical treatments: In severe cases, procedures such as flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts.
Lifestyle changes: Improved diet, quitting smoking, and managing medical conditions.

Can stress cause gums to bleed?

Yes, stress can contribute to gum problems. Stress can:

Weaken the immune system: Making it harder for the body to fight off infections.
Lead to poor oral hygiene: People under stress may neglect oral care.
Increase inflammation: Stress hormones can increase inflammation in the body, including gums.

Is it normal for gums to bleed after flossing?

Occasional bleeding: If you haven’t flossed regularly, your gums might bleed initially. This should stop as your gums become healthier.
Persistent bleeding: If your gums continue to bleed after a few days of regular flossing, it could indicate gum disease, and you should see a dentist.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are crucial in preventing and managing bleeding gums. If symptoms persist, seeking professional dental care is important to address any underlying issues.