Your gums may be bleeding for several common reasons, most notably:
- Gingivitis: This is a mild, early form of gum disease caused by plaque buildup at the gumline, leading to inflamed, red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can irritate and damage the delicate gum tissue, causing bleeding.
- Starting a new flossing routine or flossing incorrectly may cause temporary bleeding gums until your gums get used to it.
- Other causes can include pregnancy gingivitis, poorly fitting dentures, certain medications like blood thinners, vitamin deficiencies (especially vitamin C or K), or more advanced gum disease called periodontitis.
- Poor oral hygiene overall leads to plaque and tartar buildup that contributes to gum inflammation and bleeding.
To improve bleeding gums, gentle brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle brush, daily flossing, regular dental visits, and proper nutrition are recommended. If bleeding persists, it is important to consult a dentist to rule out advanced gum disease or systemic health issues.
Would further information on how to manage or treat bleeding gums be helpful?