Bleeding Gums: Understanding Causes| Consequences| Prevention| Treatment

Bleeding gums, or gingival bleeding, is a common dental condition that can indicate underlying oral health issues. It is typically a symptom of periodontal disease, a chronic bacterial infection of the supporting structures of the teeth.

bleeding gums while i brush my teeth — Bleeding gums

Symptoms of Bleeding Gums

In addition to bleeding gums, other symptoms of gingivitis and periodontal disease can include:

Red, swollen, or tender gums
Bad breath or halitosis
Receding gumline or gum pockets
Loose teeth or tooth loss
Changes in the bite or teeth alignment

Causes of Bleeding Gums

The primary cause of bleeding gums is inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis, which is often the first stage of periodontal disease. The inflammation is a response to bacterial biofilm, or plaque, that accumulates on the teeth and gumline. As the biofilm hardens, it forms calculus or tartar, which can lead to further inflammation, bleeding, and eventually, periodontal pockets.

Gingivitis

It is the most common cause of bleeding gums. Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease characterized by inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup. When plaque is not adequately removed through regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, it can irritate the gum tissue, leading to bleeding.

Bleeding Gums | Bleeding gums reasons | Bleeding gums treatment| |Dr Abi Negi

Periodontitis

Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease, if left untreated at an early stage. Periodontitis involves the destruction of the periodontal tissues and can result in gum recession, bone loss, and the formation of periodontal pockets. Bleeding gums are a common symptom of periodontitis and can be more pronounced during brushing or eating.

Other potential causes of bleeding gums include:

Systemic diseases, such as leukemia and bleeding disorders

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can affect the blood vessels in the gums, making them more prone to bleeding. This is known as hormonal gingivitis.

Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins C and K

Medications

Side effects of certain medications, such as anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, can increase the likelihood of bleeding gums.

Trauma or injury to the gum

Accidental trauma or injury to the gums can cause them to bleed. This may occur due to vigorous toothbrushing, using a toothpick too aggressively, or sustaining an impact to the mouth.

Consequences of Bleeding Gums

While bleeding gums may initially seem insignificant, they can have far-reaching consequences if left untreated.

Some potential consequences include:

Progression of Gum Disease: Bleeding gums are an early sign of gum disease. If not addressed, the disease can progress, leading to severe periodontal damage, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues.

Bad Breath: Bleeding gums can contribute to persistent bad breath (halitosis) due to the presence of bacteria in the oral cavity.

Tooth Sensitivity: As gum disease progresses and the gums recede, the roots of the teeth become exposed, leading to increased tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Loss: In severe cases of gum disease, tooth loss can occur. This can significantly impact a person's oral health and overall quality of life.

Systemic Health Issues: Research has shown a link between gum disease and systemic health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Bleeding gums can be a warning sign of these underlying health conditions.

Prevention of Bleeding Gums

Preventing bleeding gums requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. This includes:

Brush twice a day with a 1000ppm fluoride-containing toothpaste
Flossing or using interdental brushes daily to remove plaque and food debris from between teeth
Using an antiseptic mouthwash like betadine, hydrogen peroxide, chlorohexidine, or salt water to kill bacteria and freshen breath
Daily eat a balanced diet
Quitting smoking or other tobacco use
Stress-reducing through exercise, relaxation techniques, or therapy
Scheduling regular dental cleanings and check-ups with your dentist

Treatment of Bleeding Gums

The treatment of bleeding gums depends on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

For early-stage gingivitis, non-surgical therapies such as scaling, curettage and root planing, or deep cleaning, may be sufficient. This process removes plaque and calculus from the teeth and gumline and can prevent the progression of the disease.

In more advanced cases of periodontitis, surgical interventions such as flap surgery, bone grafting, or guided tissue regeneration may be necessary to restore gum and bone health and prevent tooth loss. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to combat bacterial infections.

In cases of trauma or injury, allowing the gums time to heal is typically sufficient.

Hormonal gingivitis may resolve on its own after the hormonal changes have subsided.

In cases where medications are contributing to bleeding gums, adjusting the dosage or changing the medication may be necessary.

In conclusion, bleeding gums can be a sign of underlying oral health problems and should be evaluated by a dentist. With proper treatment and preventative care, bleeding gums can be managed and periodontal disease can be prevented.

Author-

Dr. Abi Negi

Dentist

10 + years of experience

Certification in Rotary Endodontics

Associate Fellowship in Laser Dentistry Certification in Practical Implantology

Certification in Laser Treatments Diploma in Practical Occlusion and Restorative Dentistry Course Advanced occlusion appliance therapy, TMD Comprehensive Course in Veneers - Ceramic & Composite Aesthetic Certified - Europe, Germany WHO Health Program Certified Certification in Laser Dentistry Fellow of the Academy of General Education (FAGE) Member of the Indian Dental Association (IDA)