The accumulation of dental plaque causes bleeding gums — a common symptom of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other gum diseases. However, bleeding from the gums may also indicate other problems, such as teeth grinding, diabetes, hormonal fluctuations, and vitamin deficiencies.
What Bleeding Gums Mean
Bleeding gums are the number one symptom of gingivitis and other forms of gum disease. However, bleeding from the gums may also indicate other health problems, including hormonal fluctuations, vitamin deficiencies, blood clotting disorders, and even stress.
Possible Causes of Bleeding Gums
There are several reasons why gums may bleed. In most cases, the cause is related to oral health problems. However, it can also be a symptom of other diseases.
Dental causes include:
- poor oral hygiene;
- smoking;
- gingivitis (the initial stage of gum disease);
- periodontitis (moderate to advanced gum disease);
- necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (a severe gum disease);
- improperly fitted dentures or other dental appliances;
- improper use of dental floss;
- infection, which may be located either in the tooth or in the gums.
Other possible causes include:
- diabetes mellitus;
- hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause;
- vitamin K or C deficiency, or scurvy (a severe form of vitamin C deficiency);
- blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants);
- pernicious anemia;
- thrombocytopenia;
- hemophilia;
- von Willebrand disease;
- oral herpes;
- HIV/AIDS;
- stress;
- leukemia.
Care and Treatment
Treatment for bleeding gums depends on the underlying cause. If it is the result of gum disease, a dentist or periodontist (a gum specialist) will recommend appropriate treatment.
Common treatment methods for gum disease include:
- improving oral hygiene at home;
- antibiotics (as prescribed by a doctor);
- removal of dental deposits and professional teeth cleaning;
- surgery (to reduce the size of pockets around the teeth);
- laser periodontology.
If your gums bleed but you do not have gum disease, the doctor must determine why this is happening. They may recommend undergoing tests to determine whether you have diabetes, blood clotting disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or other conditions. After establishing a diagnosis, the doctor will recommend appropriate treatment.
How to Stop Bleeding Gums at Home
If you have bleeding gums that do not go away within two weeks, you should schedule an appointment with a dentist. They can determine whether gum disease is the cause.
Here are some things you can try to stop bleeding gums at home:
- brush your teeth twice a day;
- use a toothbrush with soft bristles;
- avoid smoking;
- try to avoid snacking between meals and reduce carbohydrate intake.
What Happens If You Ignore Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums may worsen over time, especially if the cause is gum disease. Untreated gum disease destroys the tissue, ligaments, and bone that support your teeth. This can lead to a continuous cycle of infection, bad breath, and even tooth loss.
If bleeding gums are caused by another health problem, your symptoms may worsen along with the progression of the underlying disease. It is best to consult a doctor so they can make the correct diagnosis and begin the necessary treatment.
Can Bleeding Gums Be Prevented?
Yes, in many cases it is possible. To reduce the risk of bleeding caused by gum disease, visit your dentist regularly and maintain proper oral hygiene at home. However, bleeding gums caused by other factors, such as hormonal changes, blood clotting disorders, or leukemia, cannot always be prevented.
When to See a Doctor
Bleeding gums may go away on their own. However, if the bleeding does not stop within two weeks, you should speak with a dentist or a general practitioner. They may recommend treatment for bleeding gums (for example, deep teeth cleaning) or treatment for another underlying condition.
Sometimes gums may bleed if you accidentally bite something hard, such as chips. Usually, this is not a cause for concern. But if your gums bleed without an obvious reason, it may indicate gum disease or another illness.
If your gums bleed for more than two weeks or if you have additional symptoms such as bad breath or swollen gums, you should consult a doctor.
Blood while brushing your teeth can be alarming. Bleeding gums may indicate gum disease or other systemic conditions. If your gums bleed occasionally or during brushing, inform your dentist or family doctor. They can determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend treatment.
Dentistry plays an important role in oral health. Specialists at YAREMA DENTAL can develop an individual treatment plan that will preserve your smile for a long
This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.