Bleeding gums: A bad sign of oral health

Bleeding gums is one of the most common dental problems. There are many problems that can be related to or be the cause of this condition.

content

• 1. Overview of bleeding gums
• 2. Oral conditions can cause bleeding gums
• 3. Treatment of bleeding gums

1. Overview of bleeding gums

Bleeding gums is bleeding in the gum line. This is the most common symptom of gum disease. But it can also indicate other health problems.

Bleeding gums can often occur when we brush in an inflamed gum area or wear ill-fitting dentures. However, frequent bleeding gums can also indicate more serious conditions, including:

• Periodontitis (a progressive form of gum disease).
• Leukemia (blood cancer).
• Lack of vitamins.
• Blood clotting disorders.

2. Oral conditions can cause bleeding gums

Dental problems are the main cause of bleeding gums. In particular, gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main causes of sensitive gums and easy bleeding.

Gingivitis

Most people develop gingivitis when plaque or tartar stays on the gums for too long. Plaque is a biofilm consisting of food debris and bacteria that adheres to teeth.

Brushing helps remove some of the plaque and can prevent the development of cavities. But plaque can persist and increase if you don't brush and floss properly.

If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, increasing bleeding. Plaque buildup near your gums can also cause gingivitis.

Gingivitis can lead to bleeding gums

Symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Swollen gums.
• Soreness in the mouth and around the gums (may be present).
• Bleeding gums.
• Breath is smelly.

Periodontitis

Periodontal diseases (especially periodontitis) can occur as gingivitis progresses. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, alveolar bone, and the connective tissue around the teeth and gums. Periodontitis can cause teeth to loosen and fall out.

Lack of vitamins

Vitamin C and vitamin K deficiencies can also make gums more prone to bleeding.

Ask your doctor to check your vitamin C and K levels if you have bleeding gums due to poor oral care. Also, follow a healthy diet to make sure you're getting the vitamins you need to stay healthy.

Foods rich in vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits and juices.
• Broccoli.
• Strawberry.
• Tomato.
• Potato.
• Bell pepper.

Foods rich in vitamin K include:

• Watercress
• Kale.
• Lettuce.
• Soy bean.
• Olive oil.

Some natural sources of vitamin K supplements

Other causes of bleeding gums

People who wear dentures can also sometimes experience bleeding gums. This is more likely because the hooks on the denture are too tightly attached to the teeth and easily stick to food.

Talk to your general dentist or orthodontist if dentures or orthodontic appliances cause your gums to bleed. They may need to take an impression to make a better fitting denture and appliance.

You should notify your dentist/doctor if the cause of bleeding gums is due to dentures

Pregnancy is also a cause of bleeding gums. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can make gums more sensitive.

Bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and leukemia can also increase the risk of bleeding gums. Your gums may bleed more often if you take anticoagulants. Drugs in this class include warfarin, aspirin, and heparin.

3. Treatment of bleeding gums

Good oral hygiene is the first step to controlling bleeding gums.

Regular dental check-ups

Visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and cleanings of your teeth and gums. The doctor will let you know if you have gingivitis and instruct you on how to properly clean your teeth. Proper brushing and flossing can remove plaque from the gums and reduce the risk of developing periodontal disease.

>> Please choose to visit reputable dental medical facilities. See more: Dispel dental anxiety when going to the doctor at the Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology in Ho Chi Minh City!

Use dental hygiene tools

Your doctor can also show you how to use a proper mouthwash to minimize plaque build-up in your mouth. Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe swollen, bleeding gums.

Use a soft tooth brush. Then, the brush will gently penetrate the inflamed gum area, especially if you have bleeding when brushing. Medium or too hard bristles can be abrasive to teeth and not good for gums.

You might also consider using an electric toothbrush. Then, the specially designed brush head can help you clean the gum line easier than brushing by hand.

Choose the right brush for you

Schedule an appointment with medical facilities, clinics, hospitals to determine if your oral health is good. Is there an underlying problem causing the bleeding gums? Please check the full body condition. Blood tests and investigations can help determine the cause of bleeding gums. Then, the treatment will vary depending on the condition and help put an end to this bleeding problem.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Ngoc