The occasional gum bleeding from time to time isn’t that serious. It’s possible that you brushed too hard, or something else minor happened that led to your gums bleeding. If your gums are bleeding regularly, though, it is a problem. There are a few different reasons for why your gums may be bleeding and different solutions to stop your gums from bleeding.
Why Are My Gums Bleeding?
There are a variety of factors that can lead to bleeding gums. Below are a few of the most common:
- Gingivitis or periodontitis
- Using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard
- Not brushing often enough
- Not going to the dentist for checkups and cleanings
- Flossing too aggressively
How to Handle Bleeding Gums
If your gums are bleeding, consider these options for stopping the bleeding:
- Buy a new brush. Some people have more sensitive gums than others. If your gums are bleeding when you brush, consider switching to a new toothbrush with softer bristles.
- Floss and brush less aggressively. While it’s important to brush and floss regularly, you don’t have to be super aggressive while doing it. There is a difference between being thorough and harming your gums. Consider brushing and flossing less aggressively.
- Stop smoking. Smoking causes a variety of health issues, including bleeding gums. For the sake of your gums and your body overall, quit smoking.
- Use gauze. Gauze is a good option to soak up the blood when your gums start bleeding. With that said, it’s a short-term solution.
- Avoid sugar and carbs. Sugar and carbohydrates can lead to a buildup of plaque on your teeth. This, in turn, can cause gingivitis—which comes with bleeding gums. Try cutting back on the carbs.
Visit Your Dentist
Bleeding gums from time to time (about once or twice a month) isn’t cause for concern. If your gums are bleeding regularly, consider the options above for stopping the bleeding. If those options don’t work, you are going to want to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
Bleeding gums are often a sign of an underlying health issue like gingivitis. This can progress over time to periodontitis, which is extremely serious. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment for as soon as possible with your dentist. If they are able to catch the gingivitis early, they can stop its progression and provide you with the treatment you need.
Make sure you have an appointment in the books for your next checkup and cleaning. These should be done twice a year. During these checkups, your dentist can ensure the health of your teeth and gums. They can also diagnose and address any oral health issues early on and stop their progression.
If you don’t have an appointment with your dentist scheduled for a regular cleaning and checkup, contact them today and get one in the books. Also, make sure you reach out if your gums have been bleeding regularly so they can determine the cause and address it.