Reasons for Bleeding Gums

Most people develop gingivitis when plaque stays on gum lines for too long. Plaque refers to the debris and bacteria that stick to your teeth. Brushing your teeth removes plaque and can prevent you from developing cavities (dental caries). But plaque may stay on your gum line, if you do not brush and floss properly. If plaque is not removed it can harden into tartar (calculus), which will increase bleeding. The accumulation of plaque near your gums can also cause gingivitis. 

Bleeding gums are the most common symptom of gum disease. But it can also point to other health problems. Occasional bleeding of the gums can be caused by brushing your teeth too vigorously or wearing dentures that don't fit correctly. Frequent gum bleeding can also indicate more serious conditions, including:

• Periodontitis (an advanced form of gum disease)

• Leukemia (cancer of the blood)

• Vitamin deficiency

• Lack of clotting cells (platelets)

Dental care issues are the primary cause of bleeding gums. Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis make your gums sensitive and prone to bleeding.

Gingivitis

Most people develop gingivitis when plaque stays on gum lines too long. Plaque refers to the debris and bacteria that stick to your teeth. Brushing your teeth removes plaque and can prevent you from developing cavities (dental caries). But plaque may stay on your gum line, if you don't brush and floss properly. If plaque isn't removed it can harden into tartar (calculus), which will increase bleeding. The accumulation of plaque near your gums can also cause gingivitis.

Symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Puffy gums

• Soreness in the mouth and around the gums

• Bleeding gums

Periodontitis

Periodontal disease (periodontitis) can occur when gingivitis becomes advanced. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, jawbone and supportive tissues that connect your teeth and gums. Periodontitis can cause your teeth to loosen or fall out.

Vitamin deficiencies

Vitamin C and Vitamin K deficiencies can also cause gums to bleed easily.

Ask your doctor to check your levels of vitamins C and K if you have bleeding gums that are not caused by improper dental care. Also, follow a diet that contains both nutrients to ensure you are getting the vitamins you need to stay healthy.

Foods rich in vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits and juices

• Broccoli

• Strawberries

• Tomatoes

• Potatoes

• Bell peppers

Foods rich in vitamin K include:

• Watercress

• Kale

• Spinach

• Swiss chard

• Lettuce

• Mustard greens

• Soybeans

• Canola oil

• Olive oil

Other causes of bleeding gums

People who wear dentures also may sometimes experience bleeding gums. This is more likely when dentures fit too tightly.

Talk to your dentist if dentures or other oral appliances are causing your gums to bleed. They may need to take new impressions to create a better fitting mouthpiece.

Pregnancy commonly causes gum bleeding. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause the gums to be more sensitive.

Bleeding disorders like hemophilia and leukemia can also increase your risk of bleeding gums. Your gums might bleed more often if you take blood-thinning medications. Drugs in this class include warfarin, aspirin and heparin.

Consult your dentist to find the actual cause of your bleeding gums.

By: Dr Swagat Pranam

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