All you need to know about bleeding gums

We often do not pay much thought to bleeding gums and shrug it off because they invariably happen when we brush or floss our teeth. We consider it as normal but it should not be ignored. Gum bleeding is a fairly common problem. It is best to see your dentist, who will diagnose the problem and advice gum disease treatment options. But, a mild form of bleeding can be treated at home with easy remedies for gum diseases.

Here is some information about bleeding gums, its causes, and more.

What should you know about bleeding gums?

• Bleeding gums are an early sign that something is not right in the mouth. Healthy gums generally don’t bleed easily.
• Bleeding in itself could be because of various reasons. But, it is more indicative as a symptom of a gum disease.
• If left untreated, it may lead to severe gum disease.

What can I do to prevent bleeding gums?

• Identify the reason for the gum bleeding.
• Practice good oral hygiene as the accumulation of plaque along the gum line can cause gums to bleed.
• Try using a softer toothbrush and not brushing very hard.
• If the bleeding is very mild, it can be self-treated.
• Gently brush your teeth twice a day and make sure to clean all the surfaces inside the mouth, including the tongue.
• Reduce the intake of sugary foods or drinks that help bacterial growth.
• Rinse and gargle your mouth immediately after you finish eating.
• Flossing every day by gently rubbing the area around and in between each tooth is essential to good oral hygiene.
• Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
• For early diagnosis of any gum disease, regular dental check-ups will be helpful.

When do I need to consult a dentist?

• If gum bleeding becomes a regular occurrence every time you brush.
• When you observe that gum bleeding is persistently occurring and not stopping.

How are bleeding gums treated by the dentist?

• The dentist will conduct a dental examination to understand the cause of bleeding of the gums.
• As a preliminary measure, and as a gum disease treatment, the dentist will remove plaque bacteria, which cause gum disease if left untreated.
• The dentist might advise other gum disease treatment options such as scaling and root planing.
• In some cases of severe gum infection, surgery may be recommended.

What are some at home remedies for treating bleeding gums?

• Replace your old, hardened toothbrush with a new softer one.
• Brush softly and floss regularly.
• Add a mouthwash to your oral care routine.
• Rinse your mouth with salt water at least twice daily.
• Eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, sweet potatoes, and red peppers, and vitamin K, such as kale, spinach, and collard greens, can help in promoting immune health. Deficiency of vitamin C can lead to gum bleeding despite practicing good oral hygiene.
• Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant which promotes gum health, helps remove plaque, and stops the bleeding of the gums. You can rinse your mouth with a solution but be careful not to swallow it.
• Chew on some raw vegetables, such as carrots, radishes, and cucumbers to improve circulation of blood and strengthens the gums.
• Apply a cold compress to the gum line as it will reduce the swelling and restrict the flow of blood causing the bleeding to stop.
• As per research, drinking green tea is known to reverse gum disease and stop frequent gum bleeds.
• Ensure you do not skip on your routine dental check-ups.