Bleeding gums can be a common sign that something is wrong with your oral health. Occasional bleeding might happen if you brush too vigorously or use a new flossing technique, persistent or spontaneous bleeding usually indicates an underlying issue.
Here’s what bleeding gums most commonly mean:
1. Gingivitis (Early Stage Gum Disease):
This is by far the most common cause of bleeding gums. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by the buildup of plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) at the gum line. If plaque isn’t removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it irritates the gums, making them red, swollen, tender, and prone to bleeding.
Key takeaway: Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene and professional cleanings. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe gum disease.
2. Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease):
If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis. In this stage, the inflammation spreads deeper, affecting the tissues and bone that support your teeth. This can lead to the formation of “pockets” between your teeth and gums, where more bacteria and plaque accumulate. As the disease progresses, it can destroy the bone and connective tissue, eventually leading to loose teeth and even tooth loss.
3. Improper Oral Hygiene Practices:
- Brushing too hard: Aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can irritate and damage gum tissue, leading to bleeding.
- Incorrect flossing: Snapping floss into your gums instead of gently gliding it can cause trauma and bleeding.
- Infrequent flossing: If you don’t floss regularly, your gums may bleed when you start again due to the sudden stimulation and removal of plaque. This usually improves quickly.
4. Hormonal Changes:
Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation and bleeding. “Pregnancy gingivitis” is a common occurrence.
5. Certain Medications:
Some medications can thin the blood (anticoagulants/blood thinners) or affect gum tissue, increasing the likelihood of bleeding. Examples include aspirin, some blood pressure medications, and certain anti-seizure drugs. Always inform your dentist about any medications you are taking.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies:
Deficiencies in certain vitamins, especially Vitamin C (which can lead to scurvy in severe cases) and Vitamin K, can impact gum health and blood clotting, leading to bleeding.
7. Other Medical Conditions:
While less common, bleeding gums can sometimes be a symptom of more serious underlying health issues, such as:
- Blood disorders: Conditions like leukemia or other bleeding disorders can affect the blood’s ability to clot, leading to easy bleeding from the gums.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease due to impaired immune function and healing.
- Compromised immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS can weaken the immune system, making gums more vulnerable to infection and bleeding.
When to see a dentist:
It’s always best to consult a dentist if you experience bleeding gums, especially if:
- The bleeding is persistent or frequent.
- You notice other symptoms like red, swollen, or tender gums, receding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth.
- You have other unexplained symptoms along with the bleeding.
Moore Family Dental can determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include professional dental cleanings, improved oral hygiene instructions, or referral to a medical doctor if an underlying systemic condition is suspected. For questions on your oral health, please contact us.