This article gives information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, care, and treatment of bleeding gums.
The bleeding of gums is an indication of disease. Generally, it implies the presence of gingivitis, which means inflammation in the area. If it is not treated in time, it transforms into periodontal disease.
Causes
There are many causes, which range from naturally occurring to artificial.
- Gingivitis/inflammation of the gum margin around the necks of the teeth
- Pregnancy: Hormone alterations make the connective tissue weaker and softer. The increase in blood pressure increases the likelihood of bleeding
- Stress, smoking, poor diet, rough or crooked teeth
- Uncontrolled diabetes and the side effects of some drugs
- In rare cases, vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), leukemia, and hemophilia
- Anticoagulants like Coumadin (warfarin) and heparin
- Chemical irritants like aspirin
- Placement of new dentures leading to sores/irritations
- Toothbrush abrasion and improper flossing
- Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: bleeding disorder accompanied by scarcity of platelets in the blood
Symptoms
If any of the following symptoms are noticed, it should be treated as soon as possible to prevent serious health issues.
- Blood in the saliva while brushing or spitting
- Presence of dull pain
- Eating of coarse food leads to bleeding
- Reddening and swelling of the gums
- Formation of pockets between teeth and gums
- Development of abscesses
Diagnosis
The following steps are taken by the dentist to diagnose this condition:
- A probe is a sharp and thin metal instrument used by the dentist. When this is passed along the margin between the tooth and the gum, it leads to immediate release of blood
- X-rays of the teeth and jaw are taken
- Blood examination is done
- Coagulation factor is checked
Treatment
The intention of the treatment is to decrease gum inflammation and ultimately eliminate its cause.
- After each meal, brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush gently
- Rinse the mouth using hydrogen peroxide and water or saltwater
- Use an ice pack to employ pressure
- Dentures should be worn only while eating
- A gauze pad is soaked in ice water and pressed against the bleeding gums
- Vitamin supplements should be ingested
- Intake of aspirin should be avoided
- Tobacco, citrus fruits, alcohol, and spicy food must be kept away
Care
After treatment, follow the following points to prevent recurrence:
- Remove the plaque twice in a year by visiting the dentist
- Plan a healthy and balanced diet
- Floss teeth twice a day
- Do not have snacks between meals
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use an oral irrigation device on a low setting to massage the gums
- Avoid tobacco
- Mouthwashes containing alcohol increase the problem and should be avoided
Prevention
As they say, prevention is better than cure. Follow these following points to keep good oral health:
- Brushing teeth at the end of each meal
- Rinsing your mouth to avoid buildup of bacteria
- Use of Bloodroot (as a toothpaste) to counteract oral bacteria
- Flossing minimum once during the day
- Professional cleaning twice annually
- Use of oral irrigators to remove food between the teeth and under the gums
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
