Bleeding Gums: Causes, Treatments, and When to See Your Dentist

Have you noticed your gums bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth? Bleeding gums (also known as dental bleeding) might seem minor at first, but they can signal something more serious. This page explores why you might have bleeding gums, how to manage them, and when it's time to visit your dentist.

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Common Problems

Why Are My Gums Bleeding?

Bleeding gums are primarily caused by the build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When plaque isn’t regularly removed through brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar and irritates the gums, leading to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis

This early stage of gum disease is marked by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums during brushing or flossing. Good news: gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis goes untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. This severe form of gum disease can cause your gums to recede, teeth to loosen, and even tooth loss. Periodontitis requires professional treatment to manage effectively.

Other Causes of Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums aren’t always due to dental issues alone. Other causes can include:

Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, or menopause can increase gum sensitivity.
Vitamin deficiencies: Lack of Vitamin C (scurvy) or Vitamin K can result in bleeding gums.
Medical conditions: Diabetes, blood clotting disorders, leukemia, and HIV/AIDS can contribute to gum bleeding.
Medications: Blood thinners and aspirin can cause gums to bleed more easily.
Poorly fitting dental appliances: Dentures that don’t fit properly can irritate your gums.
Stress: Stress can weaken your immune system, making your gums more susceptible to infection.

Simple Steps to Prevent Bleeding Gums at Home

Good oral hygiene is your best defence against bleeding gums. Here’s how you can keep your gums healthy:

Brush regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice daily. Brush gently but thoroughly after meals.
Floss daily: Flossing removes plaque between teeth, which brushing alone can’t reach.
Mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to further reduce bacteria.
Eat a balanced diet: Reduce sugary snacks and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins.
Quit smoking: Smoking not only worsens gum health but also masks the symptoms of gum disease.
Regular check-ups: Visit Knight Street Dentists for professional cleanings and check-ups every six months.

When Should You See Your Dentist?

Don’t ignore persistent gum bleeding. You should schedule an appointment with your dentist if:

Your gums bleed consistently for more than two weeks.
You experience persistent bad breath or swollen gums.
You notice loose teeth or receding gums.
You see signs of infection or inflammation that don’t improve with home care.

At Knight Street Dentists, we’ll examine your teeth and gums thoroughly, review your oral hygiene habits, and ask about your overall health. Depending on our findings, we might recommend additional tests like dental X-rays or blood tests to rule out underlying conditions.

How We Treat Bleeding Gums at Knight Street Dentists

Your treatment depends on what’s causing your gums to bleed:

A thorough professional cleaning removes tartar and plaque build-up, helping reverse early gum disease.
Deeper cleaning through scaling and root planing targets areas below the gum line to treat advanced gum disease.
We may prescribe antibiotics or antibacterial rinses to control infection.
In advanced cases, we might perform treatments such as osseous surgery or laser periodontal surgery.
If medications or dental appliances are causing your gums to bleed, we’ll adjust or replace them as needed.

Why Ignoring Bleeding Gums Isn’t an Option

If untreated, gum disease can severely damage your teeth and gums, possibly leading to tooth loss. Moreover, poor oral health has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Early intervention by your dentist is crucial for maintaining your overall health.

Let Knight Street Dentists Help

At Knight Street Dentists, we’re more than your dental clinic—we’re your dental family. Compassionate, honest, and always ready to share a laugh, our team is committed to ensuring your oral health and comfort. Don’t wait until gum bleeding becomes a bigger issue.

Contact us today and experience exceptional dental care right here in Shepparton!