Why do your gums bleed? The top reasons for bleeding gums
Are you noticing blood when you brush or floss your teeth? You may think some minor bleeding
from your gums is normal, but it can suggest an underlying issue causing the bleeding. Bleeding
can occur from simple reasons like brushing your teeth too hard. or flossing incorrectly
However, more significant health issues like gingivitis, periodontal disease, hormonal changes,
or vitamin deficiencies could be the culprit. Here are more details on the top causes of bleeding
gums.
Bleeding from Brushing too hard
We always recommend you brush your teeth twice daily as an important part of your oral
hygiene. That doesn’t mean you need to brush your teeth vigorously. Brushing too harshly
doesn’t remove any additional plaque and can cause more harm than good. You don’t want to
injure your gums or damage enamel. We recommend you brush your teeth in a gentle circular
motion. You may also consider switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Gum disease and bleeding
Gingivitis is a leading cause of bleeding gums. If left untreated gingivitis can advance into
periodontitis. This gum condition damages the tissue and bone that support your teeth.
Periodontitis may cause your gums to inflame and prone to infection, causing them to pull away
from the roots of your teeth. Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth are also signs of gum
disease. Schedule a dental exam to see how we can treat your red, swollen, and tender gums.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Insufficient levels of vitamin C or vitamin K have been associated with an increased risk of gum
bleeding. If your bleeding gums are not an oral health issue, your primary doctor can check your
vitamin levels to see if you have a deficiency. You may need to increase your intake by
improving your diet or taking supplements.
Hormonal changes
Your body’s hormones change during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. During these tim=
the blood supply to your gums can increase, making them more prone to bleeding and
sensitivity. Pregnant women may also be temporarily afflicted by “pregnancy gingivitis”.
Medical Conditions and Medication
Health problems can increase the risk of gums bleeding. These include diabetes, hemophilia,
herpes simplex virus, and leukemia. Medication can also thin your blood making gums more
likely to bleed. If a dental condition is determined by your dentist to not be the reason for your
bleeding, talk to your doctor.
No matter why you think your gums are bleeding, we recommend you schedule a dental exam
to investigate the cause and recommendations for treatment.
