Discover the causes of gum bleeding and how you can stop your gums from bleeding.
Gum bleeding, commonly referred to as bleeding gums, even if it is mild or sporadic, should not be regarded as a normal situation. In fact, bleeding gums is a warning sign that your body is giving about the state of your oral health. Gum bleeding can be a symptom of inflammation, infection, or even more serious diseases, such as periodontitis. The good news?
With proper care and follow-up, it is possible to reverse the situation and restore gum health.
In this article, we will explain why gums bleed, what may be causing the problem, and, above all, what you can do to resolve it and stop your gums from bleeding.
Why can't you stop bleeding from your gums?
The most common causes of gum bleeding include:
Gingivitis – the early stage of periodontal disease
It is the inflammation of the gums due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque along the gum line. In addition to gum bleeding, it can also cause swelling, redness, and bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a deeper infection with more serious consequences, including tooth loss.
Poor oral hygiene habits
Irregular or incorrect brushing, not using dental floss, interdental brushes, or other interdental hygiene methods, as well as a lack of regular oral hygiene check-ups lead to tartar formation, one of the main causes of inflammation that can result in gum bleeding.
Aggressive brushing
Brushing with excessive force or using hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage the gums, causing recession and micro-lesions with bleeding.
Hormonal changes
Certain phases of a woman's life, such as pregnancy, adolescence, or menopause, provoke hormonal changes that can make the gums more sensitive and susceptible to inflammation.
Smoking
Although it often masks gum bleeding (due to vasoconstriction), tobacco exacerbates inflammation and delays gum healing.
Systemic diseases and nutritional deficiencies
Diabetes, deficiencies in vitamins C or K, coagulation disorders, and certain medications (like anticoagulants) can also be the source of gum bleeding.
How to stop gum bleeding?
Improve your oral hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft brush and a toothpaste specifically designed to prevent gum inflammation. Use dental floss daily or opt for interproximal brushes or another method of interdental cleaning if recommended by your oral hygienist.
Have an Oral Hygiene check-up every 6 months
The deep removal of tartar and bacterial plaque by an oral health professional – oral hygienist or dentist – at least twice a year is essential for maintaining good oral health. During this appointment, methods that the patient should adopt for effective oral hygiene will also be taught, adapting prophylaxis to each case's needs, especially regarding the toothpaste and mouth rinses to use.
Adopt healthy habits
Adopting healthy habits such as reducing sugar and alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, or choosing a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins not only benefits the health of our gums but also promotes overall health and well-being.
Consult a dentist specialized in gums
Consult a Periodontist if there is evidence of periodontal disease progression with signs of bone loss, tooth mobility, and the presence of very dense calculus pockets. In these situations, specialized monitoring is crucial to prescribe the most appropriate treatment for each case. In the vast majority of these situations, the intervention involves a surgical approach, using periodontal surgery.
