February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. One of the most asked questions regarding gums on the internet today is “How do I cure my bleeding gums?” Good question! We are so glad this is being asked!
Gum disease is the biggest culprit of tooth loss in adults. If unaddressed, it can contribute to the development of over 52 systemic diseases, including stroke, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. If your gums are bleeding regularly, that is a sure sign of early-stage gum disease (gingivitis)! The good news: It’s totally treatable, reversible, and preventable. Let’s get into it!
First, Let’s Diagnose the Bleeding Gum Problem
First, it’s essential to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of bleeding gums to effectively address the issue. While poor oral hygiene is a common culprit, several other factors can contribute to this problem.
Injuries to the gums, whether from accidental trauma or biting down too forcefully, can lead to bleeding. Additionally, inflammation resulting from surgical procedures or dental interventions may cause gum bleeding. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also make gums more susceptible to bleeding due to increased plaque accumulation, highlighting the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene during this time.
Furthermore, brushing too vigorously or using a toothbrush with hard or worn-out bristles can irritate the gums and trigger bleeding.
Understanding the various potential causes of bleeding gums is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan tailored to address the specific underlying factors contributing to this condition. If you’ve experienced any of these situations, it’s essential to seek professional dental care to assess and address the root cause of your bleeding gums effectively.
Ways to Help Stop Bleeding Gums
FIRST, before any treatment or action, visit your dentist. As stated repeatedly, not getting any insight into what might be causing your problem is like working in the dark. Your dentist might find inflammation that is being caused by a problem area in your mouth. They might also conclude that something else is at play and suggest a few other things.
Here is what you can try if a diagnosis is not straight-forward:
Enhance Your Oral Hygiene Practices
The #1 reason that gums bleed is because of plaque build-up along the gum line, leading to bacterial infection. If you brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day, you are on the right track. If not, try to stick to that regimen and see if the bleeding goes away or lessens. It’s normal for your gums to bleed a little when you start flossing more often. Try these practices more often if you are pregnant.
Additionally, you can use a water pic and rinse your mouth out with mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide. Adding these steps to brushing and flossing should greatly reduce the chances of gum disease.
Increase Your Vitamin K Intake
Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin K is crucial for maintaining healthy blood clotting, which is vital for preventing excessive bleeding in various parts of the body, including the gums. Regularly monitoring your vitamin K levels through annual blood tests can provide valuable insights into your dietary intake and help identify any deficiencies early on. By prioritizing a balanced diet rich in vitamin K-rich foods, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, you can support optimal blood clotting function and promote overall dental and systemic health.
Incorporating vitamin K-rich foods into your diet is essential for maintaining optimal health and supporting vital bodily functions. Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are excellent sources of vitamin K, providing a nutrient-packed addition to salads, stir-fries, and smoothies. Additionally, including canola oil, soybeans, and broccoli in your meals can further boost your vitamin K intake, promoting healthy blood clotting and supporting overall well-being. By incorporating these nutritious foods into your daily meals and snacks, you can ensure you’re getting an ample supply of vitamin K to meet your body’s needs and maintain optimal health.
If your levels are still low and you are getting your daily intake, you might have an absorbent issue that will need to be addressed by your doctor.
Increase Your Vitamin C Intake
Bleeding gums have historically been associated with scurvy, a condition caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. In times past, sailors on long voyages with malnourished diets often experienced bleeding gums, serving as a telltale sign of scurvy’s presence. To address potential deficiencies and promote oral health, incorporating vitamin C-rich foods into your diet is essential.
Foods such as bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, oranges, strawberries, and collard greens are excellent sources of vitamin C. Including these nutrient-rich options in your meals and snacks can help boost your vitamin C intake and support healthy gums. However, if you suspect you may have an absorption issue or are experiencing persistent symptoms of deficiency, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor for proper evaluation and guidance.
Use a Cold Compress
If you’ve experienced an injury or gum trauma, you may need to just reduce the swelling. Apply a cold cloth or ice pack throughout the day. Use the 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off rule until the bleeding and swelling suppresses.
Final Thoughts for “How Do I Cure My Bleeding Gums”
There are many resources that will tell you to try these methods first before visiting your dentist. We don’t unnecessarily want to see our patients if we don’t have to, BUT if you are due for a regular check-up, it’s time to go. If you have tried any or all of these methods and your gums are still bleeding after a week, make an appointment. It’s always best to get it checked out.
Looking for a dentist you can trust? Miami Valley Smiles is a trusted source for dental care in the Mason area. We understand the struggles people have with visiting the dentist, so we make it as convenient and comfortable as possible. We also accept most major insurance coverage, as well as financing from companies such as CareCredit and LendingClub.
Contact us today to book your appointment!
