Bleeding Gums: What to Do?

Yikes! You found that your gums are bleeding.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that 47.2% of adults over the age of 30 will experience some form of periodontal disease. That’s almost half of the adult population!

No need to panic however; we’re going to make you an expert on what to do next.

Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

The first thing you will want to do is figure out why your gums are bleeding. The most common cause for this is a buildup of plaque at the gum line which, if left untreated, can lead to gum disease and gingivitis. Here are some other possible causes for bleeding gums:

• Ill-fitting dentures
• Hormonal changes in pregnancy
• Improper flossing (or not enough flossing)
• Vitamin K deficiency
• Infection

Understanding the cause of the bleeding will allow you to better treat yourself.

How to I Treat My Bleeding Gums?

If you were able to figure out what was causing the bleeding, next comes rectifying the situation.

In a pinch, you can stop the bleeding by applying a cold compress.

If it’s a matter of improper home care or flossing, switch it up a little. It is best if you can brush your teeth after every meal, or at least as often as possible. Use soft bristled tooth brushes. This is all you need, since brushing too hard can actually cause the bleeding! Using mouthwashes with alcohol in them can also exacerbate the problem.

If you’re already following these guidelines and still experience bleeding gums, then you will want to speak with your dentist to get a proper diagnosis. Because there are a number of factors that could cause the bleeding, the more specific you can get the better your treatment will be.

You will want to contact your dentist immediately if you experience chronic bleeding, other symptoms such as a fever, or if bleeding continues after your treatment.

How Do I Prevent Future Bleeding?

There are plenty of ways for you to prevent gum bleeding and avoid the possible infections and swollen, tender tissues that come with it.

• Ensure that you’re brushing and flossing regularly. This will prevent plaque from building up.
• It’s also suggested that you see your dentist at least twice a year in order to get routine cleanings. They can help spot places you may have missed or help you improve your brushing technique.
• Have your vitamin levels tested.
• Consult your dentist if you are taking blood thinners.
• Avoid the use of tobacco products, as they can worsen the bleeding.

Always consult your dentist in order to assess the problem and ways to prevent bleeding gums. At Friendly Dentistry, we can assist you at any stage. Whether its routine visits or treating your bleeding gums, we offer dental work that you can rely on.