Bleeding gum

Have you ever woken up one morning and you just felt so lucky? The sun is shining, you had a good sleep and everything just feels so right? So you go to freshen up and you are brushing, or flossing, and then all of a sudden, you don’t spit out the white foam you usually do…. It’s pink! Yes, I think we’ve all experienced that. It is common and there is usually no reason to panic. The smallest amount of blood is usually no big deal. However, consistent bleeding of the gum shouldn’t be ignored. So, what are the causes of bleeding gum?

Causes of Bleeding Gum

1. GINGIVITIS

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. It is the first stage of gum disease. When plaque on the teeth or gum line is not removed when brushing or flossing, it can lead to the symptoms of gingivitis. When this happens, the gum may be swollen, tender and bleed during brushing. Early stages can be corrected by good flossing and brushing habits and regular dental check-ups.

2. NEW TOOTH BRUSH

Bleeding gums may also be as a result of hard bristled brushes. Say, you had been using soft bristled tooth brush and you got a hard one later, your gum will bleed. Try to get a softer brush and ask your dentist for the type of brush suitable for you at your next meeting. Hard brushes are mostly for smokers.

3. NEW FLOSSING ROUTINE

Change in flossing routine may cause bleeding gums. When you forget to floss for a few days and then try to go back to the regular routine to remove food and plaque from your teeth, it might cause bleeding gums. This will most likely stop after a few days of constant routine.

One of the causes of bleeding gum, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) is blood thinning medications. These medications decrease the clotting ability of the drug and cause easier bleeding. Alert your dentist or doctor about any medications you may be on.

5. PREGNANCY GINGIVITIS

Some pregnant women experience swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. This is called pregnancy gingivitis. This is because hormonal changes during pregnancy can change the body’s response to the bacteria that causes gum disease. According to the American Pregnancy Association, this should clear up after pregnancy. A dental check-up and regular brushing and flossing can help to prevent gum problems from becoming worse.

Here are some things to do if you notice bleeding gum.

1. Amp up your oral care game. : Remember to brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day as well; gums can sometimes stop bleeding with regular flossing. And of course, seeing your dentist on a regular basis – not just when you have a problem or concern – is also a must to keep your mouth in the best shape.
2. Maintain a healthy diet: Commit to a diet that is low in sugar and high in the necessary nutrients found in foods like vegetables because sugar and food rich and carbohydrates increase your risk for tooth and gum problems.
3. See your dentist if you tried everything mentioned in this article as it may be a symptom of something much more serious.

Like I said earlier, bleeding gum may not be a big deal but some cases require professional help. With the right diagnosis and personal care, bleeding gums can become a thing of the past.