Bleeding gums is a common dental problem which goes unnoticed in its initial stages and is usually painful and uncomfortable as the problem advances. In most cases, one would be warned by bleeding gums when brushing the teeth and finding traces of pink or red blood in the sink when you brush or rinse your mouth. Bleeding gums can be a sign for various dental problems but is mainly associated with gum disease or infections.

The symptoms and causes

Bleeding gums are usually picked up by finding traces of blood in the sink when brushing the teeth. There are various caused for bleeding gums but the main and most common cause associated with this symptom is Gingivitis, and early stage of gum disease.

Secondary causes of bleeding gums include:

  • Receding gums,
  • Brushing too aggressively,
  • Periodontitis  occurs when bacteria penetrates the deeper tissue around the teeth destroying the tissue, ligaments and bone lying below,
  • Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis aka ANUG is a severe form of periodontitis usually experienced by immune-compromised patients,
  • Pericorinitis occurs as a result of wisdom tooth eruption causing friction to the gum line
  • Fillings which are not shaped correctly,
  • Orthodontic equipment which irritate the gum line,
  • Misaligned dentures which irritate the gum line,
  • Poor nutrition,
  • Bleeding or clotting disorders,
  • Hormonal changes especially in pregnant women,
  • Mouth sores or
  • Other medical problems such as diabetes, heart disease, leukaemia or scurvy.

A dentist should be contacted to diagnose the cause of the bleeding gums and advise on a treatment option best suited to the issue.

Prevention

The best way to stop bleeding gums is to see your dentist. Your dentist can give you tips on how to stop bleeding gums in between dental visits. The following should be noted to prevent gingivitis:

  • Proper oral care routine which includes bushing regularly (atleast twice a day) with a soft bristled brush, in a gentle circular or back and forth motion.
  • Flossing between the teeth atleast once a day to remove any food particles stuck between the teeth. These food particles lead to plaque build up and around the gums and cause gingivitis.
  • Should the bleeding be severe, control it by applying pressure to the area with a cold compress.
  • Rinse with salt water  to keep the area clean and avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
  • Avoid smoking and other tobacco products, which can aggravate bleeding gums.
  • Cut down on sugary or high carb foods which encourage the build up of plaque. Brush gently after consuming these products.
  • Have your dentures aligned if this is the cause of the gum irritation

Treatment options

Plaque Control The best bleeding gums treatment is the prevention or removal of plaque from the affected area.
Regular Checkup Early detection of bleeding gums can help in treating the problem quickly and without much effort. Regular visits to your dentist will insure any signs of gum disease and bleeding gums are diagnosed timeously and treated promptly before the problem advance.
Scaling and Root Planing Slow down the process of gum disease.

 Root Planing Treatment Video 
Dental Surgery In some cases this may be needed to control bleeding

If you suffer from an advanced form of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend on going bleeding gums treatment or periodontal therapy.

If left untreated

Bleeding gums may result in periodontitis should the problem not be treated.