What Causes Gum Bleeding and How to Stop It

Common Causes of Gum Bleeding

Gum bleeding can be caused by a variety of factors. Poor oral hygiene is a major culprit, including smoking and not brushing and flossing properly. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, and periodontitis, a more advanced form, can lead to bleeding gums. Other oral conditions like trench mouth can also be the reason. Beyond oral health, diabetes, hormone changes during life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, vitamin deficiencies like in vitamin K and C, blood-thinning medications, pernicious anemia, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, oral herpes, HIV/AIDS, stress, and leukemia can all contribute to gum bleeding.

Treatment and Care for Bleeding Gums

The treatment for bleeding gums depends on the underlying cause. If gum disease is the issue, dentists may recommend improved oral hygiene at home, antibiotics, tooth scaling and root planing, osseous surgery, or laser periodontal surgery. For cases where gum disease isn't the cause, healthcare providers will conduct tests to determine if conditions like diabetes, blood-clotting disorders, or vitamin deficiencies are present and provide appropriate treatment.

Home Remedies and Precautions

To stop bleeding gums at home, it's recommended to brush two to three times a day, floss daily, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinse the mouth with warm saltwater, and use an antibacterial mouthwash. Avoid smoking. Ignoring bleeding gums can lead to worsened conditions, especially if gum disease is the cause. It's crucial to prevent gum bleeding by regularly visiting the dentist and maintaining good oral hygiene. However, some causes like hormone changes or certain diseases may not be preventable.

When to Seek Professional Help

Bleeding gums that persist for more than two weeks should prompt a visit to a dentist or primary care physician. They will either recommend treatments for gum disease or address other underlying conditions. Common questions about gum bleeding include what deficiencies can cause it, when to be worried, and how long it's okay to have the problem. Tests like a CBC or X-rays may be conducted to diagnose the issue.