Bleeding Gums: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Bleeding gums are often caused by poor oral health habits. Inadequate brushing, lack of flossing and irregular dental examinations can cause bleeding gums. In addition, excessively hard brushing of the teeth or mismatched dentures can also lead to bleeding gums.
Bleeding gums can also be a symptom of more serious health problems. These include:
- Periodontitis: Advanced gingivitis can cause damage to the gums and jawbone.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) and vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding gums.
- Platelet Disorders: Thrombocytopenia or hemophilia can cause bleeding gums by making blood clotting difficult.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar can worsen gum disease.
- Leukemia Leukemia, a type of cancer, can cause platelet deficiency and bleeding gums.
- Pregnancy Hormonal changes can make the gums sensitive.
Symptoms and Types of Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums usually occur in the area between the gums and teeth. Bleeding can occur when chewing hard foods, brushing teeth or spontaneously. Severe or prolonged bleeding requires immediate consultation with a dentist.
Symptoms of Bleeding Gums:
- Gum swelling, redness and tenderness
- Bleeding during tooth brushing
- Bad breath
- Loosening or separation of teeth
Causes of Bleeding Gums
The main causes of bleeding gums are the following:
- Plaque and Tartar Accumulation: Plaque buildup on the teeth can cause gingivitis, and in later stages, more serious conditions such as periodontitis.
- Bleeding Disorders: Conditions such as platelet deficiency, hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease can lead to bleeding gums.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiency of vitamins C and K can cause bleeding gums.
- Pregnancy Hormonal changes can make the gums more sensitive.
Complications
If bleeding gums are not treated, the following complications can occur:
- Gingivitis: It occurs as a result of plaque accumulation under the gums. It manifests itself with swelling, redness and bleeding.
- Periodontitis: Advanced gingivitis can cause teeth to separate from their roots and lead to tooth loss.
- Diabetes and Leukemia: These diseases can make gum disease worse.
How to Prevent Bleeding Gums?
- Brush the teeth gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Prevent plaque build-up by flossing at least twice a day.
- Visit your dentist at least every 6 months and follow his or her recommendations.
How is Bleeding Gums Diagnosed?
To diagnose bleeding gums, the dentist performs a physical examination and asks about the patient’s health history. The doctor may order blood tests and other laboratory tests to determine causes other than plaque and tartar.
How to Treat Bleeding Gums?
The treatment of bleeding gums depends on the cause. Removing plaque and tartar usually stops the bleeding. However, if there are more serious underlying health problems, these conditions need to be treated. During the treatment process, it is important to follow the dentist’s recommendations and use the appropriate toothbrush.
