The Top Causes of Bleeding Gums

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.