Gingivitis
Gum disease, known as gingivitis, occurs when plaque buildup around the teeth begins to irritate the gums. This can make them more sensitive and can cause bleeding.
Gingivitis is usually very treatable by better oral health care, however, if left untreated, it can develop into more-serious periodontitis which can cause teeth loss and other permanent damage.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Low levels of vitamin C and vitamin K in the bloodstream are associated with an increased risk of gum bleeding.
Low vitamin C and K levels can be counteracted by adding more of the following foods to your diet:
- Vitamin C
- Citrus fruits
- Broccoli
- Strawberries
- Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Vitamin K
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Mustard greens
- Spinach
- Watercress
Hormone Changes
Changes in hormone levels around the time of puberty, pregnancy or menopause can affect the amount of blood which flows to the gums. The increased blood flow can result in increasingly sensitive gums which may bleed.
This condition never lasts long and is easily treated with good oral health care. Avoid touching your gums and be sure to brush and floss gently.
Existing Medical Conditions
Besides gingivitis and gum disease, other existing health conditions can cause gums to bleed. Hemophilia, leukemia and herpes are some of the conditions which can cause gums to bleed easily. Also, medications like aspirin, heparin and warfarin can thin the blood and make gums more likely to bleed during brushing or flossing.
See your doctor if you think you have developed one of these conditions or wish to change medication which is causing your gums to bleed.
Poorly Fitted Dental Devices
Poorly fitted dentures or braces can sometimes cause gums to bleed if their placement irritates the gums. Bleeding gums can occur if a dental device is attached too tightly or if it becomes loose or dislodged.
Your dentist will check on the fit of your dental device during a regular check-up. Simply mention your gums have been bleeding and your dentist will make appropriate adjustments to ensure your oral health stays in good condition.
Bleeding After A Procedure
Bleeding is common after an injury to the mouth or a dental procedure such as an extraction, wisdom teeth removal or oral surgery. This is usually temporary and may be relieved by applying pressure with gauze or a clean cloth for up to 30 minutes at a time.
Don’t rinse your mouth or eat or drink until the bleeding has stopped, then avoid touching the wound or smoking while your gum is healing. If bleeding doesn’t stop, contact an emergency dentist or visit the emergency room if bleeding is heavy.
Improve Your Natural Smile at Rose Dental
If you are suffering from bleeding gums, contact Rose Dental today to book your initial consultation and oral health treatment with a licenced dentist. We service all of Five Dock, Drummoyne, Ashfield, Concord and the surrounding suburbs.
