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What Causes Bleeding Gums?

Are your gums bleeding or inflamed? Don't panic. It's common and usually treatable with a dentist's help. There are six main reasons why your gums may be bleeding when you eat or brush your teeth, so let's break them down.

Gum Disease

Gum Disease or Gingivitis is the main cause of bleeding gums. Signs of gingivitis include:

Gum Bleeding

Puffy Gums

Redness around the gum line

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to a more significant gum condition known as periodontal disease. In time, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, but brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent gum disease from developing.

Health Conditions

Some health problems, including vitamin deficiencies and generalised bleeding disorders can cause bleeding gums. If you have such as disorder, tell your doctor about any new bleeding so they can make sure there's no underlying issue. Hormone changes, such as during pregnancy can increase inflammation around the gums, which might cause bleeding. Luckily this type of bleeding is usually temporary- just make sure you maintain good oral hygiene.

Medications

Certain medications can make you more prone to bleeding. Medicines that might cause bleeding gums include:

Antiplatelet drugs eg. Aspirin

Beta-blockers

Immunosuppressants

Warfarin

Don't stop taking medicine without speaking to your doctor, but make them aware of your situation.

Brushing Technique

It's great to brush your teeth twice a day- in fact, it's recommended. however the gum tissue is delicate and brushing too hard might cause some bleeding. Make sure you're using gentle circular motions rather than aggressive back and forth movements.

Dental Surgery

Have you recently had oral surgery such as wisdom tooth removal? It's not uncommon for gums to bleed as part of the healing process, but contact your dentist if it's heavy or especially painful.

Dentures and Braces

If your dentures or braces don't fit properly, they'll irritate the gum tissue. Your dentist can adjust these devices, so make an appointment if your dentures or braces are too tight or loose.

Treating Bleeding Gums

Treatment depends on the underlying problem, but here are some tips for managing the condition.

Book professional cleaning twice annually at your dentist

Switch to an electric toothbrush for more effective cleaning

Floss or use interdental brushes to remove food particles.

(09/07/2023)
by Sleep Dentistry Melbourne

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