Why are my Gums Bleeding?
Most adults will experience bleeding gums at some point and it will usually resolve itself with a little care; however, bleeding gums could be a symptom of a more serious underlying medical condition. If you experience bleeding gum tissue frequently, you should see your dentist as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment.
Why are my gums bleeding?
Gum Disease
Gum disease is the number one cause of bleeding gums in adult patients. The easiest way to prevent gum disease is to practice proper oral hygiene regularly and to visit your dentist at least twice a year but if you are susceptible to gum disease, you may benefit from more frequent professional cleanings.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease signified by puffy, swollen gums that bleed upon oral hygiene. It is a common issue and is most often caused by a buildup of plaque at the gum line. If you have gingivitis, your gums may be irritated, red, and swollen and may bleed when you brush and floss.
Periodontitis
Without treatment, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis pretty quickly. Periodontitis is a long-term gum condition that can cause damage to the gum tissue, bone structure, and even lead to tooth loss. When the tissue is inflamed and infected, it can cause gum recession, leading to tooth sensitivity and can be very painful for the patient.
Periodontitis can cause your teeth to come mobile or shift in place, causing crowding or spacing. Another symptom of advanced gum disease is halitosis, chronic bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth that does not go away after oral hygiene. Treating periodontitis is much easier if it is caught early. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is often the first treatment attempt accompanied by more frequent professional cleanings to keep everything healthy.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Diabetes and Cancers
Diabetes can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including gum disease. The high blood sugar levels that accompany diabetes make it harder for your body to heal, making gum disease worse.
Some cancers may have bleeding gum tissue as a symptom, such as Leukemia. Leukemia causes a low platelet count in the blood. Platelets are what enables the body to clot and stop bleeding.
Vitamin Deficiencies
A lack of vitamin C can prevent gum tissue from repairing itself and vitamin K is vital to the clotting process.
Other Causes
- Using a toothbrush that is not soft enough and/or brushing too hard
- Beginning a flossing routine and your gums are not yet used to it
- Certain medications, such as blood thinners
- Gingivitis, a disease that causes inflammation of the gums
- Pregnancy gingivitis (which usually resolves after birth)
- Ill-fitting dentures or other dental prosthesis
- Old or poorly done dental restorations
Bleeding gums are common but if you experience bleeding gum tissue that persists for more than a couple of weeks, you should see your dentist for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Gum disease is very easy to treat when it is caught early so the sooner the better!