If you have ever noticed blood in your saliva or when you spit after brushing, chances are there is something not right with your gums. Bleeding in the mouth is most commonly related to gum disease or gum inflammation. Your teeth themselves cannot bleed, a tooth socket or surrounding gum most definitely can though.
What Causes Bleeding Gums?
Bleeding gums can occur due to a number of possible reasons such as:
- Brushing too vigorously
- Injury
- Pregnancy (hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive)
- Poor dental hygiene leading to plaque build-up on the gum line
- Gum disease, such as gingivitis or
- Gum infection (periodontitis)
- Smoking
- Vitamin deficiency
Your bleeding gums could due to one or more of the above.
What Can I Do To Stop My Gums Bleeding?
The first step is to ensure you are practising proper oral hygiene. Start by gently brushing your teeth morning and night and flossing daily. Other steps you may need to take include:
- Using hydrogen peroxide or a salt wash to help disinfect your gums
- If you’re a smoker, now is the perfect time to quit!
- Increase your vitamin C and K intake. Vitamin C can help boost your immune system and increase your body’s chance of fighting off gum disease.
If after a period of 7-10 days your gums are still sore and regularly bleeding, it is time to see your dentist. A thorough clean and check-up to rule out anything significant will need to be done and a course of antibiotics may be required if an infection is present.
Your dentist may also order some blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies. Depending on the results you may need to make some diet and lifestyle changes until the bleeding and its underlying cause has been resolved.
For genuine and professional dental care, contact Alexandra Hills Dental today on 07 3824 4488.