Originally posted on 12/10/2019
Have you ever seen some pink coloring when you spit out your toothpaste? Maybe you notice your gums bleeding while you floss. A little blood is no big deal, but keep track of how much and how frequently your gums bleed.
From Gingivitis to pregnancy, there are many causes of bleeding gums. Let’s go through some of the things you should do to help your bleeding gums to get better oral health.
1. Regular Brushing and Flossing
According to Medline Plus, the number one cause of bleeding gums is when plaque builds up at the gumline. If left untreated, the plaque, bacteria, food, and more lead to Gingivitis. When this goes on for too long, it can harden into tartar, leading to worse conditions, including periodontitis.
Fight Gingivitis and bleeding gums by brushing your teeth twice each day. Try setting up a routine for when you will brush your teeth. Make sure to choose toothpaste with fluoride. Floss after brushing to get everything out from between your teeth. Don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly.
2. Check out Your Oral Health Tools
Once your routines are set, check on the tools you use. Medium to firm bristles on your toothbrush is ideal for getting a deep cleaning. Hard bristles can be rough on your mouth and irritate your gums. Your technique could also be off. Make sure to use a firm but not hard stroke when brushing or flossing your teeth.
2A. Get the Right Toothbrush
There are good and there are better toothbrushes. If you have sensitive, bleeding gums, you will need a different kind of toothbrush. Look for toothbrushes labeled as "soft" or "sensitive." Both manual toothbrushes and manual ones may help you clean your teeth without irritating them. Make sure to change your toothbrush every 3 months or when the bristles begin to fray.
2B. Get Preventative Toothpaste
While you are looking at your tools, don't forget about your toothpaste. There are toothpastes that have been designed to help remove bacteria that irritate your gums. Parodontax is one toothpaste that is made to help with reducing plaque buildup. Some of the same types of toothpaste that are made for sensitive teeth can also help with sensitive gums. Sensodyne is an example of a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth and gums and may help reduce the bleeding you notice.
2C. Brushing Technique to Stop Your Gums from Bleeding
Using a different technique may also help stop your gums from bleeding. Get into all the corners, top to bottom, inside and outside, and along to edges to make sure you get all the food and bacteria out of your mouth. Hard brushing is not always good brushing - less force can still get the job done without hurting your mouth. Use a circular motion and angle your toothbrush at about 45 degrees toward your gum line.
3. A Healthy Diet will Help All Over
What and when you eat could also impact your gums. Foods high in sugar or carbohydrates lead to tooth and gum issues. Eating more vegetables can help offset the challenge of sugar and carbs. You don’t have to go cold turkey, but limit the sweets you eat or drink.
4. Check the Label of Your Medicine
Some medicines lead to bleeding gums. Some pain relievers, including Aspirin, thin your blood, increasing your chance of bleeding. Check with your doctor about adjusting the dose or type of medicine so you can get the help you need without it impacting your oral health.
5. Visit Your Dentist
Try all of these steps to help make your teeth, gums, and mouth healthier. If you still notice bleeding in your gums, make an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to diagnose if you have a more severe issue. Some treatment options, including deep cleanings and periodontal surgery, can help to treat gum disease.
Get Help with Your Bleeding Gums with Dentists You Can Trust
Make sure to work with your dentist to get the right tools and treatment for your bleeding gums. The experienced professionals at Southfield Family Dental treat everyone from children to adults with general, specific, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. If you have bleeding gums, we can help you achieve better oral health.
Give our team at Southfield Family Dental a call today to set up your next appointment.
