The pink and spongy tissues that hold and protect the teeth in their place are known as the gums. The teeth are embedded in the gums, which are adhered very closely to each tooth so that entry and spread of infection inside to the root of the tooth and bone is prevented. Aging or disease may cause weakening and recession of gums, which lead to the loss of teeth. Hence, when the gums recede, the teeth appear elongated, become sensitive and may bleed. Usually, bleeding gums is a sign that you have gum diseases, but sometimes, it may indicate many serious diseases.
Why Do Your Gums Bleed?
- Injury
Bleeding from gums may be caused as a result of injury or trauma that may be caused by a blow, dentures, picking of teeth, foreign substances, brushing improperly and flossing. Injury may also result from irritation which is related to acids and chemicals present in foods, drinks, medicines, tooth whiteners or mouth fresheners.
- Gum Diseases
- Gingivitis: One of the major causes of bleeding gums is the formation of plaque at the gum line. This will cause inflammation of gums, which also can be referred to as gingivitis.
- Periodontitis: plaque hardens and develops into tartar. This causes more bleeding and can lead to a more advanced type of disease of the gums and bones known as periodontitis.
- Blood Disorders
Bleeding from gums can also occur due to disorders of the blood such as clotting and bleeding disorders, hemophilia, thrombocytopenic purpura, leukemia and decreased coagulation factors.
- Systemic Disorders
Bleeding from gums may also occur along with certain systemic disorders such as disorders of liver, kidney and heart, diseases of arteries, capillaries and diabetes.
- Medications and Procedures
Bleeding from gums can also occur as a side effect of certain medications such as blood thinners (aspirin and heparin) and painkillers. Bleeding may also occur as a result of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
- Other Causes
Bleeding from gums may also occur due to the following causes:
- Changes in hormones that occur during pregnancy
- Infection of the teeth or gums
- Scurvy
- Deficiency of vitamin K
Risk Factors for Bleeding Gums
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Smoke |
Smoking and using of tobacco increase the risk of periodontal disease. According to studies, using of tobacco is one of the major risk factors in the occurrence of periodontal disease. |
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Family History |
According to research, many people have a genetic tendency to have disease of the gums. A genetic test can be done to identify such individuals early, before they have signs of periodontal diseases. It can make them take preventive measures and help them keep their teeth in good condition. |
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Imbalanced Diet |
Eating a diet that lacks important nutrients may weaken the immune system and hamper the body’s ability to fight infections. Since periodontal disease often starts with an infection, a poor diet may aggravate the condition. Moreover, according to research, obese individuals are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease. |
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Stress |
Apart from other health conditions such as hypertension, cancer, etc. stress is also linked to an increased likelihood of getting periodontal disease. According to researches, stress also weakens the immune system, making the body and gums more susceptible to infection. |
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Age |
According to studies, periodontal disease is increasingly found in elderly individuals. It has been shown that periodontitis is present in more than 70% of Americans who are age 65 or older. |
Home Remedies for Bleeding Gums
- Brush Your Teeth Gently
Ensure that you brush your teeth with proper techniques. Some people brush teeth too hard or in a wrong way, which can lead to injury of the gums and make them prone tobe infected.
This video will tell you the correct and specific way to brush your teeth:
- Floss Teeth Regularly
To prevent the occurrence of gum problems, flossing your teeth regularly is extremely important. It takes only a few minutes to floss your teeth.
- Have a Balanced Diet
Having a balanced diet that is rich in vitamin C and calcium can be an effective way to decrease the risk of development of gum disease.
- Avoid Tobacco
Those who smoke or chew tobacco should quit the habit to decrease the incidence of gum disease.
- Drink Much Water
Make it a habit to drink plenty of water especially after eating anything. It will make sure that no food particles will stick to your teeth and gums and prevent the formation of dental plaque.
- Eat Foods Containing Vitamin C
Eating fruits that are rich in vitamin C can avoid gum problems such as gingivitis. Vitamin C rich fruits includes orange, lemon, etc. You can also take a vitamin C supplements. You should also eat plenty of raw vegetables to get the required nutrients. Moreover, chewing raw vegetables also helps to improve the blood circulation in the gums, thereby preventing bleeding of gums.
- Take in Anti-bacterial Products
Take products that have anti-bacterial properties such as cranberry juice and honey. It is best to make fresh juice at home as the juices from the market are either too sweet or diluted. Apart from preventing infections, honey is also full of nutrients such as minerals and vitamins, thereby helping to maintain gum health. You can rub organic honey two times a day on your gums.
- Gargle with Salt Water
Gargling with salt water is one of the easiest home remedies that you can use for your bleeding gums. Add some salt in lukewarm water and gargle at least thrice a day. You can also mix triphala instead of salt with water and then gargle.
You should seek medical help in the following situations:
- You have severe or chronic bleeding from gums
- Your bleeding continues even after you have treated it
- Other unexplained signs and symptoms are present along with bleeding from the gums