Why Do Gums bleed Sometimes?

It’s never a good realization that your gums are bleeding. Whether you bite into an apple and see some red on the apple meat, or you get a little blood on your floss, you should know the possible causes. Some causes are much more serious, and some are less, and easy to correct. We will list the causes from least to most serious.

Gums bleeding during brushing or flossing

• Improper flossing technique can cause bleeding gums. Flossing isn’t a super complicated procedure, but it’s important to do it right.
• If you have just started flossing, it’s common to get some bleeding in the gums.
• Avoid brushing too hard, as that can cause gum recession, damage, and bleeding as well.
• Food debris that is stuck in the mouth can also be a cause of bleeding when brushing. The debris can get lodged deeper into the gum line and do more damage there.

Gums bleeding at night

If you notice you have bleeding in the evening only, it is most likely caused by bruxism. Bruxism is a grinding of the teeth, most likely related to stress. Many people do it at night during sleep. If you wake up with bleeding gums, a sore jaw, and or pain in your teeth, you may be experiencing bruxism while sleeping.

Bleeding gums during specific parts of life

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is common for women to experience swollen or bleeding gums. This is especially common during early pregnancy. This is because of the hormonal changes going through the body during pregnancy, and is quite normal. 

Young children

Young children and babies may experience bleeding gums as well. Reasons include:

• Toddlers and babies love putting things in their mouths. These things may cause injury or infection.
• Poor oral hygiene in children can cause bleeding gums. Sometimes it’s easy to forget about oral hygiene because young children are still on their first set of teeth. 
• Young children may be brushing too hard, and unaware of it. 
• The softer gums and palates of young children mean that some bristles are too hard for them.

Lack of vitamins

Vitamin C and K deficiencies can cause bleeding gums. Follow a diet rich in nutrients to avoid bleeding gums. Make sure to get enough foods rich in vitamin C, including fresh fruits and vegetables, and vitamin K, including foods like leafy greens, and olive/vegetable oil.

Diseases that can cause bleeding gums

Diseases/medication can prevent the blood from clotting

Leukemia and hemophilia are diseases that stop the blood from properly forming clots. Thus, people with these diseases find it much easier for their gums to bleed.

Some medications that include blood thinners, like aspirin, can also cause bleeding gums.

Gingivitis/periodontitis

Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that develops when plaque stays in the gums too long. When it isn’t removed (via brushing or flossing) it can develop into tartar, and when tartar is beneath the gum line, bleeding can occur. Plaque/tartar can also cause dental caries, or cavities. Symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Swollen/puffy gums.
• Soreness in the mouth around the gums.
• Bleeding gums.

Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis develops into its more advanced form. This disease can easily spread to the rest of the body, including the jaw bone, heart, and tissues that connect the teeth and gums. It can also cause tooth loss.

Preventing bleeding gums

Obviously, the best way to prevent your gums from bleeding is by proper daily care.

• Brush at least twice a day, floss at least once daily, and make sure you are doing both properly.
• Don’t brush or floss too hard, and pay attention to your teeth and gums.
• Quit smoking – smoking seriously increases the risk of gum disease.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash after – but not immediately after – brushing.
• Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head if electric every 3 months.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

If you notice swelling, puffiness, bleeding, or soreness of the gums, then it may be time to schedule a dental appointment. If you happen to live in the Carrollton Texas area, then come down to Josey Lane Dentistry. We are a family care dentistry office who has been serving the Carrollton area for over 17 years. Send us a message today to find out how we can help you keep your gums healthy and your smile bright.