Bleeding Gums - What To Do?

Do your gums bleed while eating or brushing teeth or is it the first thing you notice after getting up – blood stain on your pillow?

Bleeding gums are common, but recurring bleeding should be checked by a dentist.

We have listed below the common causes of bleeding gums and what you can do to avoid them. Common causes of bleeding gums:

• Plaque: – It is the primary reason for the gums to bleed; plaque is nothing but a colony of bacteria expanding in number day by day. 
• Improper brushing: - Not brushing sufficiently or effectively leads to plaque accumulation. 
• Underlying gum disease: - Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis; bleeding alone cannot establish the diagnosis. So your gums might be indicating that you need to get your gums checked and treated. 
• Vitamin ‘C’ deficiency: - ‘YES’ vitamin C is very important for maintaining the health of your gums and bones. 

If bleeding occurs with easy bruising or fatigue, ask a clinician whether further assessment is needed rather than assuming a vitamin deficiency.

How to prevent Bleeding gums?

First thing to focus on is effective removal of plaque from your teeth. Plaque can be effectively removed by practicing proper oral hygiene methods, which includes tooth brushing, mouth rinsing, flossing etc. Brush gently and properly twice daily and clean between your teeth each day. Sometimes, even after maintaining good oral hygiene, gums might continue to bleed. Persistent bleeding needs assessment to identify gum disease or another cause. In such a case you need to consult a periodontist (gum specialist). 

Come visit us at Dent Ally, one of the best dental clinics in Delhi where we have a team of periodontists who are trained to take utmost care of your gums. A visit to our dental clinic in Delhi can help identify the cause of bleeding and the appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I stop brushing if my gums bleed?

Keep cleaning gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and clean between the teeth. Avoid aggressive brushing. Recurrent bleeding should be assessed by a dentist rather than managed by stopping oral hygiene.

Can bleeding gums happen without pain?

Yes. Gum inflammation may cause bleeding before noticeable pain develops. The absence of pain does not rule out gum disease, so repeated bleeding during brushing or eating warrants a dental check.

Can medicines cause bleeding gums?

Some medicines, including blood thinners, can increase bleeding. Tell your dentist about all medicines and supplements you take. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice from the clinician who prescribed it.

When do bleeding gums need urgent care?

Seek urgent dental assessment for significant swelling, severe pain, loose teeth or bleeding that does not settle. Heavy uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, requires emergency medical care.

Will mouthwash cure bleeding gums?

Mouthwash does not replace plaque removal or treatment of gum disease. A dentist may recommend a particular rinse for a limited period, but persistent bleeding needs an assessment of its cause.