Noticing blood on the toothbrush or floss for the first time can be very distressing, especially for those who practice good home oral hygiene. There are many issues that can cause bleeding gums ranging from buying the wrong toothbrush to developing a potentially serious underlying health condition. Read on to find out about ten causes of bleeding gums but don’t be afraid to seek professional help even if it’s unclear which of them might apply.
1. Gingivitis
The most common cause of bleeding gums is gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. The gums of patients with gingivitis are most likely to bleed while brushing, flossing, or eating. Make an appointment with a dentist to discuss treatment options and stay vigilant about brushing and flossing to avoid making the problem worse.
2. Blood Thinners
Some medications, most noticeably prescription blood thinners, can also cause bleeding gums. That’s because they decrease the body’s ability to form blood clots, which makes people bleed easier. Those who are on blood thinners and begin to experience uncontrolled bleeding should visit emergency dentists in Delhi to make sure nothing else is wrong.
3. Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Dentists are increasingly recommending soft-bristle or even extra-soft-bristle toothbrushes. Those who use hard-bristle toothbrushes should view their bleeding gums as a warning to themselves and switch back to a softer toothbrush. The bleeding during brushing should stop within a few days.
4. New Flossing Routine
It’s never too late to adopt a healthy daily flossing routine, but those who haven’t stayed on top of it in the past should expect some minor gum bleeding. It should stop after a few flossing sessions. If it doesn’t, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dentist to find out why.
5. Poor Oral Hygiene
Even temporary lapses in home oral hygiene can lead to bleeding gums. Even one day off from brushing and flossing can cause minor bleeding. The best way to avoid this problem is to stay on top of home dental care by brushing for at least two minutes twice a day and flossing daily to protect gum health.
6. Poor Diet
The ingredients found in processed foods can irritate the gum line and cause bleeding. If this is happening, try switching to healthier alternatives and make sure to incorporate plenty of fruits and veggies.
7. Smoking or Vaping
Both smoking and vaping can increase the risk of bleeding gums. They can also cause chronic dry mouth, making a bad situation worse, and encouraging the proliferation of bacteria. Try to quit as soon as possible.
8. Tooth Misalignments
Tooth misalignments can put pressure in the wrong places when consumers bite down, causing bleeding. Misaligned teeth can also cause other serious problems, so talk to a dentist about solutions as soon as possible.
9. Pregnancy Gingivitis
The increased hormones during pregnancy can make women’s mouths uniquely sensitive to bacteria, including those that cause gingivitis. Keep brushing and flossing and rest assured that the associated bleeding should stop after giving birth.
10. Chronic Stress
Chronic stress inflames tissues and makes it harder for the body to ward off diseases. This makes consumers more prone to developing gingivitis and bleeding gums. Try taking up meditation or yoga, or speak with a counselor about other stress management techniques.
The Bottom Line
Not sure what’s causing those bleeding gums? Schedule an appointment with a dentist. It’s the best way to discover the underlying problem and find a solution.
