Treating Bleeding Gums
A few spots of blood when you brush your teeth isn't usually anything to be concerned about. If it becomes a chronic issue or if there is a lot of blood, you may be suffering from gum disease or an oral infection. Brushing too hard, vitamin deficiencies, and some medical conditions can also lead to bleeding gums. The following are a few treatment tips to help remedy the problem.
Schedule a dental cleaning
The single most important thing to do is to have your teeth professionally cleaned. Removing the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth at the gum line allows your gums to begin healing, which can help alleviate bleeding gum symptoms. This will also give your dentist a chance to assess you for gum disease and begin treatment, as well as find any pockets of infection that require treating. Most people should plan on having cleanings twice annually, although your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have gum disease.
Change your toothbrush
Too stiff of bristles can irritate and damage your gums – in fact, stiff bristles can even lead to receding gums. Instead, opt for a soft bristled brush. This will gently scrub the food particles and beginnings of buildup off your teeth without damaging your gums. Also, avoid brushing too hard. Brushing your teeth shouldn't be painful or uncomfortable.
Floss daily
You are more likely to suffer from bleeding gums if you don't floss. This is in part due to plaque buildup between the teeth. When you first begin flossing, you may notice a temporary increase in bleeding, but this should go away within a few days with regular flossing. If you continue to bleed, ask your dentist for advice on your flossing technique.
Use a salt water rinse
Rinsing your mouth out with warm salt water helps slow down any bleeding. It also kills bacteria, which helps prevent infections and allows any wounds in your mouth to heal properly. Skip mouthwashes that contain alcohol, though. Although alcohol kills germs, it can also dry out your mouth. This can increase the chances of bleeding gums. Rinse your mouth at least twice daily, after each time you brush, to provide the best affect on your gum health.
Contact a dentist like Michael C. Cordora DDS, PLLC if you continue to suffer from bleeding gums. It's vital that the cause is accurately diagnosed and addressed to ensure your continued health.