Table of Contents

• Common Causes of Bleeding Gums
• 1. Gingivitis
• 2. Poor Oral Hygiene
• 3. Brushing Too Hard
• 4. Flossing Technique
• 5. Medication
• 6. Hormonal Changes
• 7. Smoking and Tobacco Use
• How to Prevent and Treat Bleeding Gums
• The Most Reliable Dental Team in Arden, NC

When you’re brushing and flossing, you’re awarded an opportunity to inspect your current oral health condition. Healthy teeth should be a solid off-white to white color, smooth, and aligned properly. Healthy gums are firm, light pink to coral, and firmly fit around your teeth. But, you may notice some signs of oral health problems during this process.

One common oral problem patients identify while brushing and flossing is bleeding gums. While you might think bleeding gums are standard, they often signify an underlying oral health problem that requires immediate attention. Understanding why your gums are bleeding can help you take the necessary steps to improve your oral health.

If you’ve recently noticed bleeding while brushing and flossing, keep reading to learn why you’re experiencing this and how to prevent it. 

Common Causes of Bleeding Gums

1. Gingivitis

If you are experiencing bleeding gums, one of the most common reasons this is occurring is due to gum disease. If you aren’t brushing and flossing adequately, you can experience a buildup of plaque and tartar along your gum line. This buildup leads to inflammation, redness, and tenderness of your gum tissue; as it goes untreated, it can progress into more severe stages of periodontal disease, which require prompt treatment from your dental team. 

2. Poor Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing adequately every day is essential for preventing the accumulation of plaque and tartar. This buildup is known for irritating your gum tissue, which can lead to bleeding. Regular and proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily, can help prevent this issue. However, if you are just starting a more consistent oral hygiene routine, it may take some time for your gum tissue to adjust. 

3. Brushing Too Hard

While brushing your teeth twice daily is essential for protecting your gums from bleeding, brushing too hard can have an adverse impact on your oral health. When brushing your teeth, you should avoid excessive pressure, as this can wear down your enamel and irritate the delicate tissue in your mouth. You should use a light touch, only allowing the bristles of the brush to touch your teeth. Any more pressure than that will do more harm than good. 

4. Flossing Technique

If you haven’t flossed in some time and are just getting into it, it is important that you floss properly. The thread should slip gently between your teeth and never be snapped against your sensitive oral tissues. Flossing improperly can cause bleeding gums, making it essential to take your time doing this. As you incorporate this into your everyday routine, it is vital that you move slowly and work up your confidence. 

5. Medication

Some medications, including blood thinners, aspirin, and blood pressure medications, can make you more prone to experiencing bleeding gums. These medications, which interfere with the body’s natural clotting process, can lead to bleeding gums, even with the most minor irritation. If you notice increased bleeding when taking new medications, you may want to speak to your doctor about whether they believe your dosage should be adjusted. 

6. Hormonal Changes

Your hormones will fluctuate throughout your life. The hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy, menopause, puberty, and menstruation can result in an increase in bloody gums while brushing and flossing. Pregnant individuals may experience “pregnancy gingivitis,” which requires extra care in oral hygiene. This bleeding can be frustrating but does not indicate any oral health concerns. 

7. Smoking and Tobacco Use

It is common knowledge that tobacco use has a major negative impact on your oral health and may be the reason your gums bleed when you brush and floss. The use of tobacco products weakens your immune system and affects circulation, making it harder for your gums to fight potential infection. This use also puts you at an increased risk of developing gum disease, which directly results in increased bleeding. 

How to Prevent and Treat Bleeding Gums

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from bleeding gums, including: 

• Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Remember to brush twice daily using a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once daily. You should also incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash into your routine to reduce the presence of plaque and bacteria. 
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and K, as well as calcium, such as broccoli, kiwis, cauliflower, and leafy greens. These foods are great at supporting your gum health. 
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: One of the best ways to avoid bleeding gums is by scheduling regular visits with your dental team. You should visit them at least twice a year for cleanings. At these dental checkups, your dentist can catch the earliest signs of gum disease, keeping you safe from advanced oral health problems. 
• Quit Smoking: While it can be difficult to give up tobacco products, especially after years of use, this is a great way to protect your teeth and gums. Consider using online resources, nicotine replacement therapies, and support from your community to give up these products and prevent any further bleeding. 

The Most Reliable Dental Team in Arden, NC

If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, it is essential that you visit your dentist as soon as possible for support. Ignoring this symptom can allow oral health conditions to worsen, increasing your risk of more severe consequences. If you’re looking for a dental team in the Arden, NC, area, turn to our Arden Family Dental team for support.

At Arden Family Dental, our team is committed to providing patients across the city with the most reliable, compassionate dental care. Whether you regularly attend appointments or you’re trying to establish a better oral health routine, you can trust that we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your healthiest smile. 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment to address your bleeding gums, don’t hesitate to contact us today for support.